UK airport drop-off fees up a third 16 of 20 busiest charge

Drivers dropping off passengers at UK airports are facing significantly higher charges this summer, with the average cost of using terminal drop-off zones having increased by a third over the past year. New research reveals that 16 of the country's 20 busiest airports have either raised or introduced so-called "kiss and fly" fees since last summer, placing a heavier burden on travelers and their families.

The most expensive charges are found at London's major airports. Gatwick and Stansted both levy a £10 fee, for 10 minutes and 15 minutes respectively. London City Airport, which previously offered free terminal drop-offs, now charges £8 for just five minutes, making it the most expensive on a per-minute basis. Other high-cost airports include Edinburgh and Bristol, which both charge £8.50 for a 10-minute stay.

The analysis, conducted by the motoring organization the RAC, highlights a stark contrast with international practice. According to the RAC, none of the 10 busiest airports in the European Union charge for drop-offs, a policy also followed by other global hubs such as Dubai, Shanghai, and Istanbul.

RAC senior policy officer Rod Dennis criticized the widespread increases,...