UK Airport Drop-Off Fees Rank as World's Most Expensive, Costing Millions Annually
Millions of British travellers depart from UK airports each year for holidays, business trips, and family visits, but many face steep drop-off charges when driven to these travel hubs. New research from the Business Travel Association (BTA) has revealed that the UK is the most expensive country globally for airport drop-off fees, with prices soaring up to £10 for just ten minutes at some locations.
Staggering Costs Across Major UK Airports
The analysis estimates that drop-off fees generate approximately £300 million annually in the UK, a figure that underscores the financial burden on passengers. Unlike many state-owned airports abroad, British airports are privately owned, which may contribute to these higher charges. The study highlights that all major UK airports impose at least £5 for drop-offs, a practice not commonly seen in other nations.
Specific examples illustrate the extent of these fees:
- London City Airport charges £8 for five minutes, with an additional £1 per extra minute.
- Gatwick Airport demands £10 for a ten-minute drop-off, also charging £1 per minute thereafter.
- Bristol Airport costs £8.50 for ten minutes.
- Heathrow Airport levies £7 for the same duration.
- Stansted Airport sets a fee of £7 for 15 minutes.
- Manchester Airport comes in at £6.40 for ten minutes.
International Comparisons and Penalties
In stark contrast, the BTA found that around 80% of major European airports do not charge for drop-offs. For instance, Istanbul Airport offers free drop-offs for 15 minutes. Additionally, many UK airports impose fines on drivers who overstay or fail to pay the fee on the same day, adding to the overall cost and inconvenience for travellers.
Calls for Reform and Airport Responses
In response to these findings, the BTA has urged UK airports to introduce a capped charge of £3. The organisation is also advocating for discounts for electric vehicles and limiting fees to one per day, among other measures to alleviate the financial strain on passengers.
Trade association Airports UK defended the charges, stating to The Times that airports use these fees to support efforts in reducing congestion, noise, carbon emissions, and air pollution for local communities. They emphasised that most airports offer free drop-off facilities and schemes for those with additional needs, as well as premium options like terminal-front drop-offs for willing passengers.
Recent Changes and Sustainability Goals
Earlier this month, London City Airport eliminated free drop-offs, becoming the last airport in the UK capital to do so. The airport stated that this move aims to help meet broader sustainability goals by reducing vehicle traffic to and from the airport, thereby lowering congestion, emissions, and improving air quality in the surrounding area. Exceptions include blue badge holders, and black cabs will have the charge included in the meter, aligning with Transport for London's agreements with other major London airports.
