The UK government this week announced a review of airport drop-off charges after continued price increases across the country.
Sixteen of the UK’s 20 busiest airports have raised passenger drop-off charges over the past 12 months, with the average cost increasing by a third since last summer, according to analysis by the UK’s Royal Automobile Club (RAC).
London Gatwick and Stansted are the most expensive, each charging £10 – up from £7 – for stays of 10 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively. Edinburgh and Bristol follow at £8.50, while Leeds Bradford, London City and Bournemouth each charge £8. London Heathrow charges £7, although drivers must depart immediately.
Only four of the UK airports assessed by RAC – Liverpool John Lennon, East Midlands, Belfast City and Southampton – have kept their prices unchanged in the last 12 months.
By contrast, none of the EU’s 10 busiest airports charge drivers to drop off passengers.
The Department for Transport confirmed this week that it would review the charges, saying it was "vital to ensure travel remains accessible and that passengers are treated fairly", according to media reports.
The Business Travel Association has welcomed the move, with CEO Clive Wratten calling for charges to be capped at £3 and applied only at peak times.
“The review must take a serious look at affordability, accessibility and fairness, and lead to meaningful change rather than simply give airports the opportunity to justify the charges they already impose,” he said in a statement.
“Up to £10 for a few minutes at the kerb is a lot to ask of travellers, particularly when public transport is not always a practical alternative… Encouraging people to use public transport is one thing, but passengers must have a realistic alternative,” he added.