Travellers across the United Kingdom are facing a fresh wave of financial frustration as a series of major airports have dramatically increased their charges for dropping off and picking up passengers. The soaring fees, which have sparked widespread public anger, mean that the simple act of saying goodbye at the terminal is now becoming a significant expense for many families.
The Sky-High New Charges
The increases, which came into effect at the start of 2026, see several key hubs raising their prices. London Gatwick Airport has taken the crown as the UK's most expensive for drop-off fees, increasing its charge from £7 to £10 for a mere 10-minute stay from January 6. This move has positioned it ahead of other major airports.
Not to be outdone, London Heathrow increased its fee from £6 to £7 for 10 minutes at the beginning of the year. Meanwhile, Edinburgh Airport will follow suit on January 13, 2026, raising its charge to £6 for 10 minutes, with extra costs for longer stays.
In a significant blow to London travellers, the capital's last remaining airport with a free drop-off option has ended the practice. London City Airport introduced a charge for all vehicles from January 6, costing £8 for up to five minutes, then £1 per additional minute, with a maximum stay of 10 minutes.
Public Outrage and Airport Justifications
The reaction from the British public has been one of sheer fury. On social media platforms, comments have flooded in criticising the hikes. One exasperated individual asked on Instagram: "Honestly, is living in the UK just death by fees and fines?"
Under Gatwick's announcement on X, formerly Twitter, one user branded the airport a "disgrace to the travelling public," while another accused them of "profiteering," questioning the lack of viable public transport alternatives during early morning or late-night hours.
Airports have defended the increases, citing rising operational costs and sustainability goals. A spokesman for Gatwick stated the decision was not taken lightly, pointing to a more than doubling of business rates. They emphasised that free drop-offs remain available in long-stay car parks with a shuttle bus, and that Blue Badge holders are exempt.
Similarly, London City Airport said its new fee aims to support sustainability goals by reducing vehicle numbers, lowering congestion, and improving air quality. Blue Badge holders are exempt, and black cabs will have the charge included in the meter.
Navigating the Costly Landscape
The analysis from Airport Parking and Hotels (APH) reveals that dropping off loved ones can now cost more than the fuel and mileage for the journey itself. Nick Caunter, Managing Director of APH, explained that rising overheads for airports are inevitably passed on to consumers.
He advised travellers to bypass these costs by checking guides ahead of time or considering alternatives like pre-booking airport parking. However, parking is also notoriously expensive, with London Stansted charging the highest 24-hour rate in Europe's top 10 busiest airports at £57.99.
Across the UK, the picture varies:
- Manchester Airport charges start from £5 for five minutes.
- Birmingham Airport still offers free drop-off for up to 10 minutes in standard areas, with a premium set-down area at £6 for 15 minutes.
- Bristol Airport charges £7 for 10 minutes, with higher fees for longer stays.
With public transport connectivity often highlighted as the preferred alternative, the debate continues over whether these fees are a necessary push towards greener travel or simply an excessive burden on the already cost-conscious British traveller.
