UK airports hike drop-off fees
Analysis based on 10 articles · First reported Jul 22, 2026 · Last updated Jul 23, 2026
The fee increases may slightly reduce passenger vehicle traffic to airports but are unlikely to significantly impact airport revenues or airline demand. The negative sentiment could affect consumer perception of UK airports, but the impact on publicly traded airport operators is minimal.
A new analysis by the RAC reveals that 16 of the UK's 20 busiest airports have increased or introduced drop-off fees over the past year, with the average cost rising by a third. Gatwick and Stansted now charge £10 for 10 and 15 minutes respectively, while London City Airport introduced an £8 fee for five minutes, making it the most expensive per minute. Only four airports—Liverpool John Lennon, East Midlands, Belfast City, and Southampton—did not raise fees. The RAC criticized the charges, noting that none of the top 10 EU airports impose such fees. Daniel Moylan, Baron Moylan has tabled an amendment to the Civil Aviation Bill calling for a review. Airports UK defended the fees as part of the business model and necessary for congestion and environmental management. The Business Travel Association also criticized the increases. Separately, the United Kingdom — Home Office extended e-gate access to children aged eight and nine to reduce summer queues.
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