Air passengers across the UK are facing a fresh financial sting before they even reach the terminal, as four major airports have significantly increased their drop-off charges at the start of 2026. The new fees, which apply to drivers stopping briefly to deposit travellers, add an unwelcome extra layer of cost to family holidays and business trips.
Which Airports Have Raised Their Prices?
The most dramatic increase comes from Gatwick Airport, which has become the UK's most expensive airport for drop-offs. From January 6, its minimum charge for a 10-minute stop has jumped by £3, rising from £7 to £10. This follows another increase to £7 just last May, with the airport citing doubled business rates and other rising operational costs as the reason.
In a significant policy shift, London City Airport has ended its status as the last major London hub without a drop-off fee. From January 7, drivers must pay £8 for a stay of up to five minutes. Every additional minute costs £1, with a strict maximum stay of 10 minutes permitted. Blue Badge holders and black cabs are exempt from this new charge.
These changes follow Heathrow Airport's own New Year's Day price hike, which saw its fee rise from £6 to £7. Heathrow also introduced a new 10-minute time limit in its drop-off zones, with penalties for overstaying. Meanwhile, Bristol Airport has increased its charge for up to 10 minutes from £7 to £8.50.
Expert Advice for Cost-Conscious Travellers
Travel experts are urging passengers to plan ahead to mitigate these rising costs. Emily Barnett, a Travel Expert at Compare the Market, warned that the fees "can quickly add an extra, unexpected expense to an already costly trip." She advises solo travellers and families alike to assess alternative travel options where possible.
Guy Hobbs, a Which? Travel Expert, described the simultaneous hikes as "a fresh blow to travellers," creating "another layer of stress, frustration and cost." However, he pointed out that free drop-off alternatives exist. "Fortunately, there are alternative long stay car parks where you can drop off free of charge at all major UK airports," he noted.
For those able to plan their journey, using public transport remains the most cost-effective option. Additionally, the Park and Ride services at Heathrow and Gatwick offer free shuttle buses to terminals from off-airport parking, which can be a more convenient and sometimes cheaper solution than the forecourt drop-off zones.
Looking for Broader Travel Savings
The wave of airport fee increases serves as a broader reminder for holidaymakers to scrutinise all travel expenses. Experts recommend booking flights and accommodation early to secure better prices and comparing travel insurance deals thoroughly. Adopting a 'buy when you book' approach for insurance ensures coverage from the moment of purchase, protecting against unforeseen cancellations.
With no further rises announced for 2026 at Heathrow or Gatwick, travellers now have a clear picture of the costs they face. However, the collective action of these four major airports signals that the era of convenient, low-cost airport drop-offs is firmly in the past, pushing passengers towards more strategic journey planning.
