Motorists at Gatwick to pay highest cost for drop off in the UK

Monday, 15 December 2025 05:00

Gatwick Airport has blamed a rise in business rates for a sharp increase in its passenger drop-off charge, which is set to rise from £7 to £10 next month.

The new fee will come into effect on January 6 and represents a 43% increase. Once introduced, it will mean Gatwick has the highest terminal drop-off charge of any UK airport, sitting £3 higher than its nearest rival.

Airport bosses say the increase is largely due to changes announced by the chancellor, which have led to higher business rates bills for large transport hubs such as airports.

The airport says that passengers and drivers do still have free alternatives. Dropping off passengers remains free at Gatwick’s long-stay car parks, where travellers can then use a complimentary shuttle bus to reach the terminals. Blue Badge holders are also exempt from the terminal drop-off fee, provided they register in advance.

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