Passengers being dropped off at London Gatwick Airport are now facing a significantly steeper charge, as the fee has been increased to a flat rate of £10. This marks a sharp 43 per cent rise from the previous £7 charge and establishes Gatwick as the first major UK airport to implement a double-figure drop-off fee.
Why Has The Fee Skyrocketed?
The airport management has attributed the substantial increase to a significant rise in business rates. Furthermore, officials state that the hike aims to encourage a greater use of public transport options and to help reduce congestion around the terminal buildings. The charge for using the designated forecourt areas has now doubled in less than five years since its initial introduction.
What Are The Alternatives For Drivers?
Despite the steep new charge, free alternatives remain available for those dropping off travellers. Passengers can still be dropped off for free at the airport's long-stay car parks, where a complimentary shuttle bus service operates to ferry them to the terminals. This option requires a little more time but offers considerable savings. Additionally, Blue Badge holders remain fully exempt from the new £10 charge and can continue to use the designated drop-off zones without paying.
A Wider Trend Across UK Airports
Gatwick is not alone in increasing these charges. Other UK airports have recently introduced or raised similar fees, citing comparable operational and environmental reasons. London City Airport and Bristol Airport are among those that have also adjusted their drop-off pricing structures. This indicates a broader industry trend towards managing vehicle flow and promoting sustainable travel options to and from airport terminals.
The new £10 fee at Gatwick came into effect on Tuesday, 6 January 2026.
