Airport drop-off charges have become a frustrating cost for travellers across the UK. Whether you’re heading off on a business trip or catching a flight for a well-earned break, that final stretch to the terminal is increasingly expensive. But do you really need to pay these fees? In this short guide, we’ll break down the true cost of drop-off charges at major UK airports and share ways to avoid them while keeping your journey and stress-free.
The Rising Cost of Airport Drop-offs
Airport drop-off charges have crept up over the past few years, with more airports introducing fees or hiking existing ones. What was once a free and simple process is now an extra cost that can add up quickly – especially for frequent travellers or those who rely on private hire services.
How much are UK Airports Charging for Drop-offs?
Most major UK airports now charge for drop-offs, and prices have steadily increased. Here’s a breakdown of some the key players as of 2025:
Heathrow Airport: £5 for all vehicles at terminal forecourts. No free drop-off option at the terminal.
Gatwick Airport: £5 for the first 10 minutes, then £1 per additional minute (up to 20 minutes).
Manchester Airport: £5 for up to 5 minutes, then £6 for up to 10 minutes.
Stansted Airport: £7 for up to 15 minutes.
Luton Airport: £5 for up to 10 minutes, £1 per additional minute.
For business travellers, these charges can add up fast, especially if they frequently travel from different airports. Some airports offer free drop-off areas away from the terminals, but they often require a shuttle bus, which adds extra time and hassle.
Are Airport Drop-off Charges Set to Rise Further?
Unfortunately, it looks likely. With growing financial pressures and increasing demand for car access to airports, more airports are looking to introduce or raise charges. Some industry experts suggest that this year, £10 drop-off fees could become the norm at major UK airports.
In some cases, business travellers and families may find that using a premium airport transfer service is more cost-effective in the long run, avoiding last-minute parking fines or excessing charges while ensuring a seamless, reliable service.
How to Avoid Paying Airport Drop-off Fees
Airport drop-off charges might seem unavoidable, but with a bit of planning, you can sidestep the worst of them. Whether you’re a frequent business traveller, a family planning your next vacation, or even a private hire driver, here’s how to keep those fees to minimum – or dodge them altogether.
Use Free Drop-off Zones (If Available)
Some UK airports still provide free drop-off areas, but they’re often further away from the terminal, meaning a short bus ride or walk is needed. These are typically found near long-stay car parks or designated shuttle areas.
Heathrow: No free drop-off at terminal, but you can use Long Stay Car Parks and take the free shuttle.
Gatwick: Free drop-off at the Long Stay Car Park, with a shuttle to the terminal.
Manchester: Free drop-off at the JetParks 1 car park, but requires a shuttle ride.
Stansted: Free drop-off at the Mid Stay Car Park, with a 5-10 minute shuttle.
Luton: Free drop-off at the Mid Stay Car Park, with a 10-minute walk or shuttle.
The downside? These options add time to your journey, which isn’t ideal if you’re rushing to catch a flight.
Short-stay Car Parks Might be Cheaper
If you need to be closer to the terminal but want to avoid the official drop-off fee, some short-stay car parks are a cheaper alternative – especially if you’re only stopping for 10-15 minutes.
For example:
At Gatwick, parking in the short-stay car park for 20 minutes costs £6, compared to £10 for 20 minutes in the drop-off zone.
Stansted’s short-stay parking is sometimes cheaper than paying £7 for a 15-minute drop-off at the forecourt.
It’s worth checking each airport’s pricing in advance, as rates vary.
Get Dropped Off Near the Airport and Walk
A sneaky but effective trick is to get dropped off just outside the airport grounds, where charges don’t apply, and walk the rest of the way.
For example:
Heathrow: Some travellers get dropped off at nearby hotels like the Premier Inn Terminal 5 and take a short walk or free bus.
Gatwick: Some use the South Terminal Long Stay Car Park and walk or hop on the shuttle.
Stansted: The BP petrol station near the airport is a common drop-off point for savvy travellers.
This option works best if you’ve got light luggage and don’t mind walking a bit.
Book an Executive Airport Transfer and Let the Driver Handle it
For business travellers and families who don’t want to mess around with shuttles, parking, or unexpected fees, a pre-arranged executive transfer is the best solution.
- Professional drivers know the best drop-off options at each airport, avoiding unnecessary costs.
- Fixed-price bookings mean no hidden fees, unlike taxi that may charge extra for airport drop-offs.
- Executive vehicles offer a stylish, comfortable, and stress-free journey, ideal for business trips where time is money, and for families with children and plenty of luggage.
- When you book your airport transfer with KPD, you don’t pay for drop-off and pick-up charges, and you’re delivered straight to drop-off area.
While airport drop-off charges can feel like an unavoidable cost, there are ways to reduce or eliminate them altogether. Whether it’s using a free drop-off area, parking wisely, or booking an executive transfer, a bit of planning can go a long way. But for business travellers and families who need reliable, spacious vehicles, a professional airport transfer with KPD is often the best investment.
Looking for a Stress-free Airport Transfer?
Why battle with airport drop-off charges, last-minute parking stresses, or unreliable transport when you can travel in style and comfort?
Book your executive airport transfer today and let us handle the logistics while you focus on your journey ahead.
