Airport parking drop-off fees at some of the UK's busiest terminals have been labelled 'daylight robbery' by an Express reporter, who is calling for immediate change. Luke Chillingsworth, Cars Reporter, argues that the charges are excessive and unjustified, particularly for drop-offs where drivers simply stop to let passengers out.
Drop-off charges: a growing burden on passengers
Gatwick Airport charges motorists £10 for just 10 minutes in the drop-off bay, with an additional £1 per minute for each extra minute up to 20 minutes. Stansted's quick drop-off zone costs £10 for 15 minutes, and anything over that incurs a £28 fee. Re-entering the zone within 30 minutes also triggers a £28 charge. At Heathrow, every vehicle entering the terminal drop-off area faces a £7 fee. These costs come on top of airline tickets and baggage fees, leading to frustration among travellers.
Public opinion: 81% say charges are too high
According to data from the RAC, 81% of Britons believe airport parking charges are significantly too expensive. The reporter suggests that airports would soon notice if passengers stayed home due to the high costs, and calls for a separate free drop-off area with a five-minute maximum, after which charges could apply.
Airport alternatives: free options but with caveats
Stansted offers up to 60 minutes free pick-up or drop-off at its Mid Stay car park, while Heathrow provides free drop-off at its Park & Ride car parks, though these are several miles from the main terminal. Gatwick allows free parking for two hours in its Long Stay bays. However, the reporter questions whether such measures are necessary for those simply dropping off passengers.
