Britain's holidaymakers are facing a steep price hike as they attempt to bid their loved ones farewell before flights at major UK airports. Research by the RAC reveals that 16 out of 20 surveyed airports have increased their drop-off charges, with some now charging up to £10 for just 15 minutes.
Gatwick and Stansted top the list, each imposing a £10 fee for 10 and 15 minutes respectively, while Edinburgh and Bristol follow closely with an £8.50 charge for 10 minutes. London City Airport has introduced the highest per-minute rate at £8 for just five minutes – a significant increase from its previous free drop-off policy.
The RAC analysis highlights stark contrasts in international hubs, where none of the EU's busiest airports or major global hubs such as Dubai, Shanghai, or Istanbul charge for drop-offs. UK airports provide complimentary drop-off zones but these often involve bus transfers and can be located far from terminals.
Rod Dennis, a senior policy officer at the RAC, expressed disappointment at the increasing fees, stating that these 'farewell fees' are out of step with global airport practices and warning drivers about the risks of parking charge notices reaching up to £100 for missed payments in unbarred zones.
AirportsUK defends the fees as essential to supporting flights and managing congestion, traffic, and pollution concerns, but also notes that UK airports operate under full commercial taxation rates – unlike many state-subsidised international airports. The issue has sparked a Conservative peer's call for an amendment to the Civil Aviation Bill, seeking a review of drop-off charges.