London Gatwick introduces UK's first airport robotic parking system

London Gatwick Airport will launch a robotic parking service in August 2026, the first of its kind at a UK airport. In partnership with French automation firm Stanley Robotics, the system uses autonomous robots that lift cars by their tyres and store them in tightly packed blocks, eliminating the need for door clearance and traditional valet handling. Passengers drive into a secured cabin, scan their booking, keep their keys and walk to the terminal; the robot then moves the vehicle to a secure parking area and retrieves it before the flight lands.

The technology aims to increase parking capacity by up to 40 % in existing facilities and up to 60 % in new builds, according to German manufacturer Serva Transport Systems, which built the Ray robot. Initially, the service will operate on weekdays between 9 am and 5 pm for stays of five days or longer, with a free shuttle linking the robotic bay to the South Terminal. Gatwick officials say the system will streamline passenger flow and help meet growing demand for airport parking.