Airport drop-off fees up by a third - here are the priciest
BBC News 2026-07-23 07:03:20
Context: Drop-off fees at major UK airports have increased by a third on average since last summer, with 16 of the 20 busiest airports raising their prices. The fees are part of airports' business models and climate change objectives, aimed at managing congestion and encouraging the use of public transport. London's Gatwick Airport tops the list with a "farewell fee" of £10 for 10 minutes.
Key Facts
- The RAC motoring group found that the average cost of dropping off passengers in "kiss-and-fly" areas at UK airports rose by £1.70 to £7 compared to this time last year.
- London City Airport, which introduced drop-off fees this year, charges £8 for five minutes, working out at £1.60 per minute, making it the most expensive on a per-minute basis.
- Gatwick Airport charges a "farewell fee" of £10 for 10 minutes, while Stansted Airport charges £10 for 15 minutes at its "express set down" outside departures.
- Birmingham Airport is the cheapest, charging £7.00 for 15 minutes, which equates to 47p per minute.
- None of the top 10 airports in the EU charge for drop-offs, according to RAC research, which contrasts with the increasing fees at UK airports.