Home / Business and Economy / Gatwick Airport Doubles Drop-Off Fee to £10
Gatwick Airport Doubles Drop-Off Fee to £10
12 Dec
Summary
- Gatwick's drop-off fee increases by 43% to £10 from January 6.
- The airport blames rising costs, particularly business rates, for the hike.
- This makes Gatwick the most expensive UK airport for passenger drop-offs.
Gatwick Airport will soon implement a significant increase in its passenger drop-off fee, raising the charge from £7 to £10 starting January 6. This represents a 43% surge and positions Gatwick as the most expensive UK airport for this service. Airport officials cited mounting operational expenses, including a more than doubled business rates bill, as the primary driver for the decision. The new fee aims to encourage greater reliance on public transport and reduce terminal congestion.
Despite the increased cost, Gatwick emphasizes alternative options, such as complimentary drop-offs in long-stay car parks with free shuttle bus services to terminals. Blue Badge holders will continue to be exempt from the drop-off charge. This change is anticipated to impact taxi and minicab fares, potentially increasing costs for passengers.
The substantial rise in business rates, affecting airports and other properties, is a key factor. Gatwick faces an projected £11.9 million increase in its business rates for 2026-27. This situation mirrors broader challenges faced by the aviation sector regarding property tax assessments.
