UK Government commits to airport drop-off fee review

The UK Government has committed to reviewing airport drop-off charges after RAC analysis found that 16 of 20 airports it assessed had raised or introduced fees since last summer. The Department for Transport says the review is intended to help ensure travel remains accessible and passengers are treated fairly. The RAC said the average charge among the airports it analysed rose by a third to £7. Its findings concern so-called “kiss and fly” fees for drivers setting down passengers close to terminal buildings. The review’s scope and timetable have not been confirmed. The Department for Transport said it hoped airports would show restraint over further increases, particularly where public-transport alternatives are limited. Taxis and private-hire vehicles generally pass drop-off fees on to passengers, while airports typically provide free drop-off options in mid- or long-stay car parks, with buses connecting them to terminals. The RAC’s analysis reported fee increases at airports including Gatwick and Stansted. The supplied figures show Gatwick charges £10 for 10 minutes, with an additional £1 for each minute up to 20 minutes. Stansted charges £10 for up to 15 minutes and £28 for...