UK government targets airline and airport fees for passengers

The UK government has announced several regulatory measures aimed at reducing incremental fees for air travelers. A 12-month review is underway regarding passenger drop-off fees at 20 UK airports. These charges, which can reach £13 at London City Airport, generate an estimated £300 million annually. The review will examine affordability, passenger behavior, and the use of the revenue. While the Business Travel Association noted that all top 20 UK airports charge these fees compared to none of the top ten EU airports, airport operators argue these funds support flight variety and terminal services.

Additionally, new regulations are being introduced to prevent airlines from charging parents extra fees to sit with children under 14. Currently, seating arrangements for families can cost up to £104 on return journeys. The Department for Transport aims to implement these changes before the next summer holiday season via the civil aviation bill. The government also plans to address fees associated with correcting name mistakes on flight bookings.