Airport drop-off and pick-up fees in the United Kingdom have continued to rise, driven in part by government policies aimed at reducing car travel in line with net-zero environmental targets, according to campaigners and industry figures.

UK airports are among the highest globally in terms of charges for drivers stopping close to terminals. Fees can reach up to £1 per minute, with most large airports charging at least £5 for a short “kiss and fly” drop-off. These charges collectively generate around £300 million annually for airports. Critics argue that fee increases have been exacerbated by government-imposed “surface access strategies,” which require airports to meet specific targets for the proportion of passengers arriving via public transport.

As part of these requirements, Gatwick Airport’s approval to build a second runway came with a condition that at least 54 percent of its passengers use public transport. Similarly, Luton Airport, which aims to nearly double its passenger capacity to 32 million annually, must ensure that no more than 45 percent of passengers arrive by car under the terms of its development consent order.

Both airports have recently raised their drop-off charges significantly. Gatwick increased its fee by £3 to £10 for a 10-minute stop, while Luton’s fee rose by £2, reaching £7 for the same duration. Heathrow’s fee also increased by £1 to £7 for 10 minutes compared with 2025.

Aviation Minister Keir Mather has encouraged airports to utilize their surface access strategies to set clear sustainable travel targets, underscoring their role in achieving a greener transport future. Opposition parties have criticised government policies, arguing that these targets and the accompanying rhetoric compel airports to perpetually hike fees in an effort to meet the mandated goals.

Research by the RAC indicates that 16 of the 20 busiest UK airports have increased their driver charges over the past year. On average, fees have risen by £1.70, reaching approximately £7 per stop. Among the highest charges are London Gatwick (£10 for 10 minutes) and London Stansted (£10 for 15 minutes), followed by Edinburgh and Bristol airports at £8.50 for 10 minutes. Leeds Bradford, London City, and Bournemouth airports also charge around £8 for varying lengths of stopping time.

Concerns over the rising costs have recently prompted members of the House of Lords to propose a review of airport drop-off fees, describing the current charges as “out of control.” However, this amendment was not binding, leaving the government free to reject the proposal.

AirportsUK defended the fees, stating they are a fundamental part of the airport business model and contribute to maintaining a broad range of flight options from UK airports. The Department for Transport acknowledged the need for accessible travel and said the government expects car parking policies at airports to be managed fairly and appropriately for consumers.