How does Gatwick’s new drop-off charge increase compare to other major UK airports?
- Perry Richardson
- May 1
- 1 min read
Gatwick Airport’s decision to raise its forecourt drop-off charge to £7 from 2 May places it among the highest in the UK for such fees.
Heathrow Airport currently charges £6 for vehicles using its terminal drop-off zones. Drivers must pay the fee online or via an automated payment system, with no on-site payment option available. Like Gatwick, Blue Badge holders at Heathrow are exempt.
Manchester Airport’s drop-off charge stands at £5 for up to five minutes. A longer stay of up to ten minutes costs £6.20. Drivers looking to avoid charges are directed to dedicated free drop-off areas further from the terminals, with shuttle buses linking passengers to their flights.
Stansted Airport also charges £7 for up to 15 minutes in its express set-down zone. Any stay beyond 15 minutes incurs a higher rate, and drivers are encouraged to use a free option located further away from the terminal or face paying a huge £25 fee.
Luton Airport’s drop-off fee is £5 for up to five minutes, but additional charges apply for longer stays. A free drop-off point is available in its mid-term car park, with a free shuttle to the terminal.
Birmingham Airport charges £6 for up to 15 minutes in its drop-off area. Staying longer pushes the cost higher, with drivers urged to use longer-stay options if needed.
Overall, Gatwick’s new £7 minimum charge is in line with Stansted but notably higher than Heathrow, Manchester, and other airports. Free alternatives, generally located in Long Stay or mid-term car parks, are available at most airports for those wishing to avoid drop-off fees.
