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A recent study by the RAC reveals that over half of the UK’s busiest airports have increased their “kiss-and-fly” charges for vehicles dropping off passengers near terminals.
The automotive services company found that 11 out of 20 UK airports have raised prices since last July. Gatwick, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, and Southampton now join Stansted in imposing a £7 fee for a brief stop.
Notably, drop-off fees are absent at nine of the ten busiest airports within the European Union.
Airports UK, representing the industry, stated that all airports provide complimentary drop-off alternatives situated further from the terminals, such as “park and ride” facilities with shuttle buses.
London Heathrow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Liverpool have all increased their rates by £1, now charging between £1 and £6 for stays of 10 to 20 minutes.
The RAC also discovered that Cardiff Airport has implemented a new £3 charge for 10 minutes.
According to the research, London Luton and Manchester airports levy the highest cost per minute, with drivers paying £5 for a five-minute stop.
Rod Dennis, a senior policy officer at the RAC, commented: “Drivers are a captive audience, explaining the prevalence of these fees. However, £7 for a stop of just 10 minutes seems excessive.
“The consistent year-on-year increase in these charges is likely to frustrate those dropping off friends or family this summer.”
The RAC’s survey of European airports found that hubs like Frankfurt and Paris Charles de Gaulle offer free drop-off. Only Amsterdam Schiphol charges €2.50 (£2.17) for the service.
Karen Dee, chief executive of Airports UK, said: “Where fees are applied, they help airports manage and reduce congestion, noise, carbon emissions, and air pollution for local communities, as mandated by the Government and local authorities.
“These charges are integrated into the airport business model and support the provision of diverse flight options.”
London City Airport remains the only airport on the list without a drop-off fee.
A Gatwick spokesperson stated: “The drop-off charge helps manage car numbers and reduces congestion at terminal entrances, while funding sustainable transport initiatives.”
They added that Blue Badge holders, with permits for disabilities affecting mobility, are exempt.
Belfast and Southampton also confirmed Blue Badge holders remain exempt from the charges.
A Southampton spokesperson said regarding the price increase: “All funds generated from our parking facility are reinvested into the airport and play a crucial role in securing new routes for the region.”
The BBC has reached out to other airports for comment.
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