Airport Drop-Off Fees Increase by a Third
The cost of short-term parking at two of the UK's busiest airports has reached £10, reflecting a significant rise in drop-off fees.
By BBC News
Drop-off fees at major UK airports have increased by an average of one-third since last summer, according to new analysis by the RAC motoring group. The study examined the costs associated with parking at the closest points to terminals at the 20 busiest airports, revealing that 16 of these airports have raised their prices over the past year.
Gatwick Airport leads the charge with a 'farewell fee' of £10 for just 10 minutes of parking. Stansted Airport also imposes a £10 fee but allows drivers 15 minutes at its 'express set down' area outside departures.
The RAC reported that the average cost for dropping off passengers in designated areas has risen by £1.70, bringing the average fee to £7. In contrast, London City Airport, which introduced charges this year, has the highest per-minute rate, charging £8 for five minutes, equating to £1.60 per minute. Birmingham Airport offers the most economical option, charging £7 for 15 minutes, or 47p per minute.
Notably, none of the top 10 airports in the EU charge for drop-offs, highlighting a stark difference in pricing strategies. The RAC acknowledged that UK airports typically provide alternative drop-off options further from terminals, often with free shuttle bus services.
Rod Dennis, a senior policy officer at the RAC, expressed concern over the rationale behind these fees, stating that having a 'captive audience' should not justify the high charges, especially when contrasted with practices at major airports worldwide.
The Aviation Environment Federation (AEF) defended the fees, arguing that they serve as an incentive for passengers to consider alternative transport methods, which could help alleviate congestion and reduce air pollution around airports. Celeste Hicks, policy manager at AEF, suggested that any revenue from these charges could be reinvested into local transport services rather than benefiting airport shareholders.
Airports are actively encouraging the use of public transport. For instance, when Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander approved Gatwick's plans for a second runway, it was stipulated that 54% of passengers should arrive via public transport. Similarly, Heathrow may need to implement measures to discourage driving as part of its expansion plans.
A spokesperson for Gatwick Airport stated that the drop-off charges aim to discourage 'kiss and fly' trips, with data indicating that these fees are prompting passengers to explore alternative transport options. The airport connects to 120 train stations across London and the south east and operates eight local bus routes around the clock.
Passengers can still drop off for free at long-stay car parks, which provide shuttle services to the terminal, and Blue Badge holders are exempt from the drop-off charges.
Airports UK, the trade body representing UK airports, stated that where drop-off fees are implemented, they are essential for managing congestion and addressing traffic and air pollution concerns in local communities, as mandated by government and local authorities.
However, Clive Wratten, chief executive of the Business Travel Association, criticized the fees, claiming they add to business costs and that the rationale for these charges has shifted multiple times, undermining their credibility.
To avoid unexpected charges, the RAC advises checking fees and payment methods before travelling, considering alternative parking options, and being mindful of time limits to prevent overstaying.