The UK government has announced it will review airport drop-off charges after significant price increases in recent years. According to an analysis, prices at major UK airports have risen by an average of one-third since the summer of 2025, with Gatwick and Stansted airports seeing charges increase from £7 to £10. Edinburgh Airport's fees have risen from £6 to £8.50, while Bournemouth's charges increased from £5 to £8, which is now the same as those at Leeds Bradford and London City airports.
The Department for Transport confirmed its commitment to the review, emphasizing the importance of ensuring travel remains accessible and that passengers are treated fairly. The government expressed hope that airports would limit price increases, especially where public transport options are limited.
The RAC, which conducted the analysis in July 2026, has campaigned against the rising drop-off charges, stating that a review of these fees would be welcomed by drivers. Rod Dennis, a senior policy officer at the RAC, noted that four out of five drivers surveyed view the charges as excessive, with only one in ten understanding the rationale behind them.
The RAC's research indicated that London City Airport, which implemented charges in 2026, has the highest per-minute fee, charging £8 for five minutes, equating to £1.60 per minute. Belfast International Airport has also increased its charge to £5 for ten minutes, up £2 from the previous year. Notably, none of the top ten airports in the European Union impose charges for drop-offs.
The RAC argues that international airports should not charge for drop-offs, while the airport industry contends that these charges are essential for their business models. Supporters of the charges claim they encourage the use of environmentally friendly transport options. Karen Dee, chief executive of Airports UK, stated that UK airports are generally privately owned and face various commercial taxation rates, unlike many airports abroad that are publicly owned and receive state subsidies.
Dee added that airports provide various options for travelers, including free drop-off points, and that any government review would find that airports effectively manage traffic and air pollution. The Aviation Environment Federation has previously defended the fees, suggesting they help alleviate congestion and pollution around airports.
Earlier this month, the government announced the removal of additional charges for parents accompanying their children during flights, which will take effect before the next summer holidays. Prime Minister Andy Burnham described these changes as part of a series of measures aimed at alleviating cost-of-living pressures on households.