Airport Drop-Off Fees Soar Ahead of Summer Travel Rush
Drivers preparing to drop off friends and family at UK airports this summer face a shock as seven of the country’s 21 busiest airports hike their terminal drop-off charges. One airport has even introduced a fee for the first time, reveals fresh RAC research.
Southampton and Belfast Hit Drivers Hardest
- Southampton Airport: Charges jump from £4 to £6 for a 20-minute drop-off.
- Belfast International: Fee up by £2, now £3 for just 10 minutes.
- Glasgow Airport: Raised to £5 for 15 minutes (previously £4).
- Aberdeen: Now £5 for 15 minutes, up from £4 for 10 minutes.
- Leeds Bradford: Increased to £6 for 10 minutes from £5.
- Liverpool John Lennon: Now £5 for 10 minutes, up from £4.
- Birmingham: Fees climbed to £4 for 15 minutes from £3.
Notably, Belfast City Airport has joined the charging ranks for the first time, demanding £3 for a 10-minute stop where it was previously free.
Stansted Still Crowned Most Expensive Drop-Off
London Stansted holds the title with a hefty £7 charge for 15 minutes, despite no price hikes this year. However, six top UK airports including Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Luton, and Edinburgh have kept charges steady since last summer. Here’s a snapshot:
- Heathrow & Gatwick: £5 for a brief stop.
- Manchester: £5 for just 5 minutes.
- Luton: £5 for 10 minutes.
- Edinburgh: £4 for 10 minutes.
Good news for budget-conscious travellers – Cardiff, London City, and Inverness airports still offer free drop-offs right by the terminal.
RAC Warns: Airport Drop-Off Fees ‘Jaw-Dropping’ and Rising
Nicholas Lyes, RAC head of roads policy, said:
“Putting up airport drop-off charges has become an annual ritual. This year, seven airports increased fees, and one introduced charges for the first time. Drivers should brace for jaw-dropping prices when dropping off loved ones.”
“Although fewer airports hiked fees compared to last year, overall charges are at an all-time high.”
“With ongoing rail strikes, many travellers rely on friends and family for airport runs, making these charges even more frustrating.”
“Do your homework before you travel. Many airports offer free or cheaper drop-off zones in long-stay car parks with shuttle buses to the terminals. This can save your driver a fortune.”
“Beware of no-stopping zones inside airport boundaries. Cameras enforce penalties that could hit drivers with hefty fines.”
