Gatwick Airport has ignited a storm of protest after introducing a £10 charge for drivers to drop off passengers outside its terminals, instantly becoming the most expensive airport in the UK for this service.
A Sharp Hike Labelled a 'Cash Grab'
The controversial fee, which permits a stop of up to ten minutes, came into effect on Tuesday, 6th January 2026. The airport defended the move, citing a more than doubling of business rates and other rising operational costs. A spokesperson stated the decision was not taken lightly.
However, the hike has been met with fierce criticism from industry experts and travellers alike. Clive Wratten, chief executive of the Business Travel Association, strongly condemned the increase, stating: "This latest increase feels more like a cash grab than a necessity." He highlighted that while drop-offs are largely free across Europe, such charges are becoming normalised in the UK.
Passengers and Drivers Bear the Brunt
Travel writer Andy Mossack described the policy as a "money-making exercise" and told BBC Radio Surrey it was "disgraceful." He argued that "poor old passengers and drivers are getting another blow to the pocket."
The impact on trade was immediately felt. Taxi driver Nadeem Mehmood reported losing significant business, calling the hike "very bad" for trade in comments to BBC Radio Sussex. Podcast presenter Lisa Francesca Nand challenged the airport's suggestion to use public transport instead, pointing out that trains are often "expensive" and don't run early enough for many morning flights.
Airport's Defence and Alternative Options
In its statement, Gatwick Airport said the increased charge aims to reduce congestion and encourage greater use of public transport, helping to fund sustainable transport initiatives. The airport acknowledged that early-morning public transport connectivity from some areas could be "challenging."
The airport outlined free alternatives, noting that passengers can still be dropped off for free in the long-stay car parks with a complimentary shuttle bus to the terminals. Furthermore, Blue Badge holders remain exempt from the new £10 terminal drop-off charge.
Despite these options, the consensus among critics is that the sharp fee increase places a disproportionate financial burden on ordinary travellers and businesses, doing little to address the underlying issues of airport operating costs while profiting from a essential travel service.
