UK Government to Review Airport Drop-Off Fees Amid Public Outcry
Department for Transport agrees to examine soaring charges for brief vehicle access to terminals.
The UK Department for Transport (DfT) has announced a review into airport drop-off fees, following a significant increase in charges across major airports. The move comes amid growing public frustration over the cost of briefly accessing airport terminals.
A recent study by the RAC revealed that charges have risen by as much as a third since the summer of 2025 at many UK airports. Out of 20 airports analyzed, 16 have increased their fees for motorists dropping off passengers close to the terminal.
Gatwick and Stansted airports currently have the highest charges, with drivers paying £10 for a 10-minute stay at Gatwick and 15 minutes at Stansted. Edinburgh and Bristol airports follow, charging £8.50 for a 10-minute period.
In response to the outcry, the DfT stated that ministers are committed to the review to ensure travel remains accessible and passengers are treated fairly. A spokesperson added, "In the meantime, we hope airports exercise restraint on rises, particularly where there are limited public transport alternatives."
The RAC noted that none of the ten busiest airports in the European Union charge for drop-offs, nor do major international hubs like Dubai, Shanghai, and Istanbul. In contrast to many European and US airports, most UK airports are privately owned and operated, with parking arrangements governed by contracts between airport operators and car parking companies.
Rod Dennis, RAC senior policy officer, expressed disappointment earlier this year, stating, "It's disappointing to see so many airports charging so much for what many regard as a simple act of kindness in dropping off family and friends." He questioned the rationale for these fees when free drop-off zones operate successfully at many international airports.
Industry body AirportsUK, however, has defended the fees, arguing they are necessary to manage congestion, address local communities' traffic and air pollution concerns, and support climate change objectives. They also noted that UK airports, unlike many publicly owned international counterparts, do not benefit from state subsidies or tax exemptions.
Many airports do offer free alternatives, such as shuttle buses from more distant parking areas, to mitigate the cost of drop-off zones.