Drop-Off Fees Rise Across UK Airports
The cost of being dropped off at UK airports has increased significantly in 2026, with the average fee now standing at £7.66, up from £5.51 the previous year. This represents a 39% increase, adding to the financial burden on holidaymakers and those using private transport to reach terminals. According to research by Motorpoint, over a quarter of travellers (28%) rely on friends or family for airport lifts, making this a widely used method, especially for early morning or late-night flights when public transport may be limited.
Birmingham Airport: Free Drop-Off Option Available
Birmingham Airport has increased its premium set-down area fee by £1 to £7 for up to 15 minutes, located a minute's walk from the terminal. However, the airport also provides a free drop-off area approximately five to ten minutes away on foot, offering a cost-saving alternative for passengers with manageable luggage. Ben Custard, a motoring journalist at Motorpoint, advised: “Although airport drop-off zones tend to be convenient as they are right next to the terminal, I'd suggest checking airport websites, as many have a free drop-off area slightly further away.”
East Midlands Airport Holds Fees Steady
East Midlands Airport is among the airports that have not increased their drop-off charges for 2026, maintaining its previous fee structure. Other airports holding charges include Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow Prestwick, Cardiff, and Teesside. Cornwall Airport Newquay offers 10 minutes of complimentary parking in a designated drop-off/pick-up area, providing a welcome exception for travellers in the South West.
Significant Increases at London Airports
The most notable price hikes occurred at London airports. London City Airport, which previously offered free drop-offs, introduced an £8 charge. London Gatwick raised its fee by £4, making a 10-minute drop-off cost £10. London Stansted also charges £10 for up to 15 minutes. Other London airports saw increases: Luton now charges £7 (up £2), Heathrow £7 (up £1), and Southend £8 (up £1).
Regional Variations in Drop-Off Charges
Across the UK, drop-off fees for 2026 vary widely. In the South of England, Bournemouth Airport charges £8 (up £3), Southampton £7 (up £1). In the East of England, Norwich Airport charges £8 (up £3). Northern airports include Newcastle at £6 (up £1) and Leeds Bradford at £8 (up £1). In the West of England, Bristol charges £8.50 (up £1.50) and Exeter £6 (up £1). Scottish airports show increases: Edinburgh £8.50 (up £2.50), Glasgow £7 (up £1), Aberdeen £7 (up £1.50), and Inverness £3.90 (up £0.10).
Caution Against Unofficial Drop-Off Spots
Motorpoint warned drivers against dropping passengers off at unofficial locations such as petrol stations or hotel car parks to avoid fees, as some have been fined for not using official airport drop-off points. Ben Custard added: “Depending on who you're dropping off and how much luggage they have, this could be a good option,” referring to free drop-off areas.
