UK government to review airport drop-off charges

The UK government has committed to a review of airport drop-off charges following significant price increases at major terminals. The Department for Transport stated the review is vital to ensure travel remains accessible and that passengers are treated fairly, noting that airports should exercise restraint on price hikes, particularly where public transport alternatives are limited.

Research by the motoring organization RAC indicates that average drop-off fees have increased by approximately one-third since the summer of 2025. The analysis found that 16 out of 20 assessed airports have raised or introduced these “kiss and fly” tariffs. Specific examples of rising costs include Gatwick and Stansted, where charges have reached £10, and Edinburgh, where fees rose from £6 to £8.50.

The RAC reported that four out of five drivers surveyed view these charges as a “rip-off,” with only 10% expressing an understanding of why airports implement them. The organization noted that many major international airports do not charge for passenger drop-offs. While the industry maintains these fees are a necessary part of the airport business model and encourage environmentally friendly travel, the government's review aims to address growing driver frustration.