The cost of various aspects of holiday travel is on the rise, including flights and airport parking. One airport expense that many travelers may not anticipate is the increasing charge for dropping off passengers in the UK.
While having someone drop you off at the airport can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to parking, most airports now impose fees for stopping near the terminal to unload passengers. At a London airport, for example, the fee for dropping off luggage at the curb is £1 per minute.
Research conducted by Motorpoint reveals that the average cost of airport drop-offs has increased to £7.66, up from £5.51 last year. Approximately 28% of people rely on friends or family for rides to the airport, especially for early morning or late-night flights when public transportation may not be available.
Notably, several airports have raised their drop-off fees for 2026. For instance, London City Airport, which previously offered free drop-offs, now charges £8. London Gatwick increased its rates by £4, making a 10-minute drop-off cost £10, while Stansted now charges £10 for a 15-minute drop-off.
However, some airports, such as Manchester, Liverpool, East Midlands, Glasgow Prestwick, Cardiff, and Teesside, have not raised their fees for 2026. Additionally, Cornwall Airport Newquay offers 10 minutes of free parking in a designated drop-off/pick-up zone.
Motorpoint’s motoring journalist, Ben Custard, advises travelers to check airport websites for free drop-off areas slightly further away from the terminals. Using official drop-off points is recommended to avoid fines, as some drivers have been penalized for dropping off passengers in unauthorized areas near airports.
In conclusion, the increasing costs of airport drop-offs highlight the importance of planning and exploring alternatives to manage travel expenses effectively.
