Gatwick Airport Raises Drop-Off Charge to £10 in 2026, Making It UK’s Most Expensive

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London Gatwick Airport has announced a significant increase to its passenger drop-off charge, raising the fee to £10 from 6 January 2026. The move will make Gatwick the most expensive airport in the UK for motorists dropping off passengers outside the terminal.

The Fee Increase and Airport’s Rationale

Under the new pricing, drivers dropping passengers at the terminal forecourt will pay £10 for a short stay — a 43 per cent rise from the current £7 charge. Gatwick says the increase is necessary due to soaring operational costs, particularly a steep rise in business rates enforced by the UK government’s recent Budget.

A Gatwick spokesperson said the increase will also support efforts to reduce traffic congestion outside the terminals and encourage greater use of public transport options. The airport intends to use part of the revenue to fund sustainable transport initiatives in the region. (The Independent)

Impact on Travellers and Motorists

The new £10 fee places Gatwick ahead of other major UK airports, where drop-off fees typically sit at around £7. Heathrow, for example, will raise its charge to £7 from January 1, 2026, but will still remain cheaper than Gatwick.

Drivers using taxis or private hire vehicles are expected to see the charge passed on to passengers by operators. This could especially impact travellers with heavy luggage, families, and older passengers who rely on car drop-offs for convenience.

Exemptions and Alternatives

Gatwick has confirmed that Blue Badge holders will remain exempt from the drop-off charge. The airport also encourages drivers who wish to avoid the fee to use long-stay car parks, where they can leave passengers free of charge and use a complimentary shuttle bus service to the terminals.

In addition, public transport links remain strong at the West Sussex airport — with frequent trains to London, Brighton and beyond — potentially reducing dependence on roadside drop-offs. (Time Out Worldwide)

Wider Context and Industry Reaction

Gatwick’s decision comes amid broader increases in costs for airports across the UK. Business rates — a form of property tax — are rising sharply, placing financial pressure on operators. The airport industry has warned that these hikes could ultimately be passed on to travellers in various ways. (Financial Times)

Transport groups have described the Gatwick increase as substantial, noting that charges for dropping passengers directly outside terminals are still relatively unusual compared with other European airports.

What This Means for Travellers

For UK travellers and those departing from Gatwick early in 2026, the higher charge will become an additional cost to factor into airport journeys — particularly for families and groups. As the fee applies per vehicle, journeys that might have been quick drop-offs will now carry a noticeable price tag.

Passengers planning December or early January travel are advised to consider public transport or park-and-ride options where possible to avoid the new £10 forecourt fee.

Gatwick’s change also sets a precedent that may influence how other UK airports manage traffic and costs, especially at busy travel periods.