UK Airport Drop-Off Fees Rise Average One-Third Since Last Summer

Analysis by the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) reveals that average passenger drop-off fees at the 20 busiest UK airports have risen by one-third since last summer, increasing by an average of £1.70 to reach £7. Sixteen of these airports have either raised or introduced these "kiss-and-fly" charges. London Gatwick and London Stansted currently charge the highest flat fees at £10, while London City Airport has the highest per-minute cost at £1.60, totaling £8 for five minutes.

RAC Senior Policy Officer Rod Dennis described the costs as "farewell fees" and warned drivers about barrierless "park now, pay later" zones, where failure to pay online by midnight the following day can result in £100 penalties. The RAC noted that none of the 10 busiest EU airports, nor major hubs in Dubai, Shanghai, or Istanbul, charge for drop-offs.

Airports UK defended the fees as essential for managing congestion, reducing air pollution, and supporting the business models of privately owned airports. The Aviation Environment Federation argued that such charges should be reinvested into local bus and rail services rather than benefiting shareholders. In response to the price hikes, Lord Moylan has tabled an amendment to the Civil Aviation Bill requesting a formal review of these charges.