The cost of dropping off passengers at UK airports has risen sharply in 2026, with the average fee now standing at £7.66, up from £5.51 in 2025, according to research by Motorpoint. London City Airport introduced a new £8 charge after previously offering free drop-offs, while Gatwick and Stansted now charge £10 for a short stop. More than a quarter of travellers (28%) rely on lifts from friends or family, making these increases significant for many.
Major Increases at London Airports
London City Airport, which previously allowed complimentary drop-offs, now charges £8. London Gatwick increased its fee by £4 to £10 for a 10-minute stop, and London Stansted also charges £10 for up to 15 minutes. London Luton rose by £2 to £7, Heathrow by £1 to £7, and Southend by £1 to £8. These changes reflect a broader trend of rising costs at terminals across the country.
Regional Airport Changes
In the South of England, Bournemouth Airport increased its charge by £3 to £8, while Southampton rose by £1 to £7. Norwich Airport in the East of England now charges £8, up £3. Northern hubs saw increases: Newcastle Airport up £1 to £6, and Leeds Bradford up £1 to £8. In the Midlands, Birmingham International rose by £1 to £7. Bristol Airport in the West of England increased by £1.50 to £8.50, and Exeter by £1 to £6. Scottish airports also saw rises: Inverness up 10p to £3.90, Edinburgh up £2.50 to £8.50, Glasgow up £1 to £7, and Aberdeen up £1.50 to £7.
Airports Holding Charges Steady
Several airports have not increased their drop-off fees for 2026, including Manchester, East Midlands, Glasgow Prestwick, Cardiff, and Teesside. Liverpool John Lennon Airport offers a paid Express Drop-off zone for £6 for 10 minutes, but also has a free Drop-off 2 area about a seven-minute walk away where the first 20 minutes are complimentary. Cornwall Airport Newquay provides 10 minutes of free parking in a designated drop-off area, offering relief for travellers in the region.
Tips to Avoid High Fees
Ben Custard, a motoring journalist at Motorpoint, advises: "Although airport drop-off zones tend to be convenient as they are right next to the terminal, I'd suggest checking airport websites, as many have a free drop-off area slightly further away. Depending on who you're dropping off and how much luggage they have, this could be a good option." He warns that motorists should avoid using unofficial spots like petrol stations or hotel car parks, as this can lead to fines. Planning ahead and using free alternatives can help travellers save money.
