Gatwick Airport's rising drop-off charges are set to come under Government scrutiny after new figures revealed it is now one of the most expensive airports in the UK for dropping off passengers.
Crawley MP Peter Lamb has welcomed the announcement of a Government review, following growing concerns about the financial burden being placed on passengers, families and those travelling to and from the airport.
New analysis from the RAC shows Gatwick has increased its drop-off charge from £7 to £10 for just ten minutes, making it the joint most expensive airport in the country for passenger drop-offs.
The increase comes amid a wider rise in charges across Britain's busiest airports.
According to the RAC, drop-off fees at the UK's 20 busiest airports have increased by an average of a third since summer 2025, adding further costs for people travelling by air.
The Department for Transport has confirmed it will review airport drop-off charges to examine whether passengers are being treated fairly and whether airport travel remains affordable and accessible.
Ministers have also urged airport operators to exercise restraint when considering further price increases, particularly at locations where alternative public transport options may be limited.
The announcement has been welcomed by Peter Lamb, Labour MP for Crawley, who says the issue is frequently raised by local residents.
Gatwick Airport is a major employer for Crawley and the surrounding area, with thousands of people working at the airport or regularly travelling through it.
Mr Lamb believes there needs to be greater transparency surrounding the charges and how they are set.
He said: “I welcome the Government's decision to review dop off rates. Crawley residents often raise this issue with me and the impact it can have on those using or working at the airport.”
He added: "I fully recognise the importance of managing traffic and congestion around airports, but it is important that where charges are made that these are made fairly and transparently.”
Airport drop-off charges are generally introduced to manage traffic congestion around terminal buildings and encourage passengers to use public transport or alternative parking arrangements.
However, the latest increases have prompted concerns about whether motorists are being charged excessive amounts simply to leave passengers at airport terminals.
At Gatwick, the £10 charge applies to a stay of up to ten minutes in the designated terminal drop-off areas.
The Government's review will examine the wider issue of airport drop-off fees, with a focus on fairness and affordability for passengers.
No timetable has yet been announced for when the review will be completed or whether it could lead to changes in the charges currently imposed at Gatwick.
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