UK Airport Drop-Off Fees Surge by a Third, With Gatwick Leading the Pack

Drivers dropping passengers off at the UK's major airports are facing significantly higher charges this year, with fees rising by an average of a third since last summer, according to new analysis by the RAC motoring group.

The research examined the cost of stopping at the closest available point to terminals at the 20 busiest airports across the country. Of those, 16 had increased their prices compared with a year ago. The average cost of using so-called "kiss-and-fly" zones has gone up by £1.70, reaching £7.

Gatwick and Stansted Charge the Highest Flat Fees

London Gatwick topped the list, imposing a £10 "farewell fee" for a 10-minute stay at its terminal drop-off area. London Stansted matches that £10 figure but gives drivers 15 minutes at its express set-down zone outside departures.

London City Airport, which only introduced drop-off charges this year, is the most expensive on a per-minute basis. Its £8 fee for five minutes equates to £1.60 per minute. At the other end of the spectrum, Birmingham offers the best value at £7 for 15 minutes, working out at 47 pence per minute.

The RAC also highlighted that none of the top 10 airports in the European Union charge for drop-offs at all, a contrast that the organisation says undermines UK airports' justifications for the fees.

Airports Defend Charges as Congestion and Climate Measures

Airports UK, the trade body representing the sector, said that free drop-off options remain available and that the charges form part of airports' business models as well as their climate change objectives. A spokesperson said the fees are "necessary to manage congestion, and the traffic and air pollution concerns of our local communities," adding that these are issues airports are mandated to manage by government and local authorities.

A London Gatwick spokesperson said drop-off charges are designed to discourage "kiss and fly" trips and that data shows the policy is influencing passengers to seek alternatives. The airport connects to 120 train stations across London and the south east, with eight local bus routes operating around the clock. Passengers can still be dropped off for free at long-stay car parks with a shuttle bus to the terminal, and Blue Badge holders are exempt from the charge.

The Aviation Environment Federation (AEF), a campaign group, also defended the fees. Policy manager Celeste Hicks said parking and drop-off charges "could be reinvested by laying on local bus and rail services instead of lining the pockets of airport shareholders." The group argues that financial incentives are needed to encourage people to use public transport, reducing congestion and air pollution that can contribute to childhood illnesses such as asthma.

The push toward public transport is tied to expansion plans. When Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander approved Gatwick's second runway, a condition was that 54% of passengers must use public transport. Heathrow may face similar requirements if it proceeds with plans for a third runway.

Critics Question Shifting Justifications

Despite the environmental and congestion arguments, the RAC's senior policy officer Rod Dennis criticised the fees, saying that "having a captive audience should be no excuse for these 'farewell fees' – especially when they're completely at odds with how major airports around the world operate." He also warned drivers to be cautious of barrierless "park now, pay later" zones, where failing to pay online or by phone within a set timeframe can result in a parking charge notice.

Clive Wratten, chief executive of the Business Travel Association, echoed those concerns and said the fees are adding to business costs. He questioned the evolving rationale: "First it was environmental [reasons]. Then congestion management. Then funding new routes. Now apparently it is about offsetting tax rises. The goalposts have moved so many times now that the credibility of any justification has long since gone."

How Drivers Can Avoid Unexpected Charges

The RAC and airport operators suggest several strategies for passengers looking to minimise costs. Checking fees and payment methods before setting off is essential, and Blue Badge holders may be exempt at certain locations. Many airports offer cheaper or free alternatives at car parks further from the terminal, often with shuttle bus connections. Researching public transport options in advance can also help travellers avoid the charges entirely.

Drivers using drop-off zones should keep a close eye on the time, as overstaying the limit can trigger additional costs. Those arriving by taxi should also confirm where the vehicle will drop them and whether the fare includes the airport fee.

With fees continuing to climb and no sign of a reversal, staying informed is the best way to avoid an unwelcome surprise at the terminal kerb. If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow travellers and let others know how airport drop-off charges have affected your journey.

Source: BBC Business