Summary
More than half of the UK's busiest airports have increased fees for "kiss-and-fly" drop-offs, where cars briefly stop to let passengers off near terminals. This trend contrasts with European airports, where most do not charge for such drop-offs. Airports claim the charges help manage congestion and environmental issues.
Key Facts
- 11 out of 20 major UK airports have raised their "kiss-and-fly" fees since July.
- Gatwick, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, and Southampton charge £7 for a brief stop close to terminals.
- Nine out of the 10 busiest airports in the European Union do not charge drop-off fees.
- London Heathrow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Liverpool increased their fees by £1 to £6.
- Cardiff Airport introduced a new fee of £3 for 10 minutes.
- London Luton and Manchester charge £5 for 5 minutes, the highest per minute cost.
- Airports argue the fees help reduce congestion and emissions and support new flight routes.
- Blue Badge holders, such as those with disabilities, are exempt from these charges at some airports.
