Travellers face higher airport drop-off costs again as UK fees rise from January 2026. New research from Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com) confirms increases at several major UK airports. As a result, drivers dropping off or collecting passengers will need to budget carefully.
New APH Guide Helps Drivers Avoid Extra Charges
APH has updated its airport drop-off guide to reflect the latest changes. The guide explains drop-off fees, short-stay parking costs, and free alternatives. Therefore, drivers can avoid unexpected charges and travel with greater confidence.
Heathrow, Gatwick and Edinburgh Rip Offs
Often called “Kiss and Fly,” airport drop-offs now cost more than fuel at some locations. We call them Rip Offs and Fly. At London Heathrow, the 10-minute drop-off fee rises from £6 to £7 from 1 January 2026. Meanwhile, London Gatwick increases its 10-minute charge from £7 to £10 from 6 January 2026. Edinburgh Airport follows on 13 January 2026, charging £6 for 10 minutes. Additional fees apply for longer stays at all three airports.
Only Birmingham offers some free drop offs
At Manchester Airport, charges start at £5 for five minutes, with a maximum stay of 30 minutes.
In contrast, Birmingham Airport offers free drop-off and pick-up for up to 10 minutes. However, its premium set-down zones cost £6 for 15 minutes. Bristol Airport charges £7 for 10 minutes, with higher fees for longer stays.
Blue Badge Concessions Vary by Airport
Blue Badge concessions differ widely across UK airports. At Heathrow, registered Blue Badge holders can drop off for free with advance registration. Aberdeen Airport offers extra free time in short-stay parking for Blue Badge users. At Cardiff Airport, drivers must use designated bays to avoid standard charges.
Late Payments Can Trigger Hefty Penalties
Most airports require drivers to pay drop-off charges online. Failure to pay on time can result in significant penalties.
At Heathrow, late payments may trigger an £80 charge, reduced to £40 if paid early. At Stansted, unpaid fees can result in a £100 charge, reduced to £60 for early settlement.
How Travellers Can Avoid Rising Airport Fees
Drivers can reduce costs by checking the APH guide before travelling. Alternatively, pre-booked airport parking often proves cheaper than drop-off charges. Planning ahead remains the easiest way to avoid unnecessary airport fees.