Airport drop-off charges across the United Kingdom are facing government scrutiny after experiencing significant increases over the past year. Analysis conducted in July revealed that fees at major airports have risen by approximately one-third on average since summer 2025, with particular increases at London’s major hubs.
Gatwick and Stansted airports now charge £10 for drop-offs, up from £7 previously. Edinburgh Airport increased its fee from £6 to £8.50, while Bournemouth, Leeds Bradford, and London City airports now charge £8 each, up from £5 for Bournemouth and varying lower amounts at other locations. Belfast International Airport raised its charge to £5 for a 10-minute period, representing a £2 increase year-over-year. London City Airport, which introduced charges for the first time in 2026, charges £8 for five minutes, equating to £1.60 per minute on a per-minute basis.
The Department for Transport confirmed it would conduct a review of these fees, stating the government aims to maintain accessibility for travelers and ensure fair treatment. Officials indicated airports should exercise restraint on further increases, particularly where public transportation alternatives are limited. The RAC, which carried out the analysis, has advocated against the fee increases, noting that four in five drivers surveyed consider drop-off charges to represent poor value. The organization points out that none of the top 10 European Union airports charge for passenger drop-offs.
Airports and their industry representatives defend the charges as necessary components of their business operations and argue they serve environmental purposes by encouraging use of alternative transportation methods. Airports UK’s leadership noted that privately owned UK airports face full commercial taxation unlike many European counterparts that benefit from public ownership and state support. Airport operators also highlighted free drop-off options available at their facilities. The Aviation Environment Federation has previously supported such fees as effective tools for reducing congestion and air pollution around terminal areas.
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