The UK government has formally committed to reviewing airport drop-off charges following significant price hikes that have sparked widespread public frustration. Officials stated it is “vital to ensure travel remains accessible and that passengers are treated fairly,” while urging airports to “exercise restraint on rises, particularly where there are limited public transport alternatives.”
Rising costs at major hubs
Analysis suggests that costs at major UK airports have increased by an average of one-third since the summer of 2025. Gatwick and Stansted have raised drop-off charges from £7 to £10. Edinburgh Airport fees have risen from £6 to £8.50, while Bournemouth, Leeds Bradford, and London City airports have increased fees to £8.
Driver frustration and RAC findings
The RAC, which conducted the analysis, welcomed the government’s review as “music to the ears to drivers.” Rod Dennis, senior policy officer at the RAC, stated, “We know airport drop-off charges are a growing source of anger and frustration. Four-in-five drivers we’ve surveyed believe they are a ‘rip-off’, with just one-in-10 understanding why airports charge what they do.”
Per-minute pricing and international comparisons
- London City Airport, which introduced charges in 2026, is the most expensive on a per-minute basis, with an £8 charge for five minutes working out to £1.60 per minute.
- Belfast International Airport now charges £5 for 10 minutes, an increase of £2 from last year.
- The RAC notes that none of the top 10 airports in the European Union charge for drop-offs.
While the RAC argues that international airports should not charge for drop-offs, the airport industry maintains that these fees are a necessary component of their business models.
