Whilst many UK airports charge hefty fees for dropping off passengers, new research showed some still offer free services for holidaymakers. A study uncovered variations in drop-off charges across the country's airports.
Some travellers face fees as high as £7 for just five minutes at certain locations. However, the findings highlighted the airports that continue to prioritise passenger convenience by maintaining free drop-off zones.
These complimentary services range from unlimited free drop-offs to generous time allowances of up to 30 minutes, offering welcome relief for families and friends providing airport lifts.
The research by vehicle lease firm Select Car Leasing examined drop-off charges at airports throughout the UK, revealing costs that vary dramatically between locations. At the expensive end of the scale, London Southend Airport charges £7 for stays of up to just five minutes, making it the costliest international airport in the UK for drop-offs.
Birmingham International Airport has free drop-offs
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Leeds Bradford International, Gatwick and Bristol airports also charge £7, though they allow up to 10 minutes. Southampton and Stansted airports charge the same £7 fee but provide 20 and 15 minutes respectively.
In stark contrast, five UK airports continue to offer completely free drop-off services with varying time allowances.
The five UK airports offering free drop-off service- London City Airport - free drop-offs with no specified time limit, though waiting is not permitted
- Exeter International Airport - free for 30 minutes, with flights to Amsterdam, Lanzarote and Mallorca
- Inverness Airport - free for 15 minutes, serving destinations including Mallorca and Amsterdam
- Birmingham International Airport - free for 10 minutes, after which a £5 charge applies
- Newquay Cornwall Airport - free for 10 minutes, with a £2.50 charge thereafter
Other airports offer free drop-off in nearby car parks, although a shuttle or walk is required. This includes Aberdeen Airport, Belfast City Airport, Birmingham Airport, Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow Airport, London Gatwick Airport, Newcastle Airport and more.
These airports demonstrate that passenger-friendly policies remain viable despite the trend towards charging for drop-offs at most UK airports.
Managing director of Select Car Leasing Graham Conway said: "For families and friends tasked with ferrying loved ones to the airport, drop-off fees can be pricey and the cost varies wildly.
"It's encouraging to see that a handful of airports still prioritise passenger convenience with free short-term drop-offs. However, our research also highlights the lack of consistency across the UK, with motorists facing a confusing patchwork of fees and time limits.
"For holidaymakers who'll be begging friends or families for a lift to the airport, it's worth bearing drop-off fees in mind when booking your flights. Plan ahead, check the drop-off policies, and avoid any surprise charges."
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Free drop-offs can help holidaymakers save on long-stay car park fees
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Getting through the airport is often one of the most stressful parts of a holiday, and a flight attendant has shared essential tips to make this easier.
This includes leaving some essentials in your carry-on so you have them with you for the flights. She said: "[Have] a re-useable clear liquid bag to separate out liquids, gels, and pastes with each container no bigger than 100ml. I always have eyedrops, hand sanitiser and lip balm close to hand.
"Keep your passport, phone and chargers in your hand luggage so they are always within easy reach. Bring your own reusable water bottle and take advantage of free water fountains across the airport."
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