RAC reports that the UK's busiest airports are increasing kiss-and-fly charges.

According to research from the RAC, over half of the busiest airports in the UK have raised their "kiss-and-fly" fees for vehicles dropping off passengers near terminals.


The motoring organization discovered that 11 out of the 20 major UK airports have increased their rates since July of last year. Gatwick, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, and Southampton have joined Stansted in charging the maximum fee of £7 for very short parking durations. In contrast, nine of the ten busiest airports within the European Union charge no fees for drop-offs. Airports UK, which represents the industry, stated that all airports provide free drop-off alternatives farther from the terminals, such as "park and ride" services that allow drivers to leave their cars and take a bus to the airport. London Heathrow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Liverpool have all increased their drop-off charges by £1, bringing the cost to £6 for stays of 10 to 20 minutes. Additionally, Cardiff airport has implemented a fee for the first time, requiring £3 for a 10-minute stop. London Luton and Manchester airports ranked as the most expensive on a per-minute basis, with drivers facing a £5 charge for a five-minute stop, the research revealed. Rod Dennis, the RAC's senior policy officer, commented, "Drivers have no alternative, which is why we believe airports are eager to impose these fees. However, charging £7 for a stop that may only last 10 minutes feels excessive. The continual rise in these costs year after year will likely frustrate anyone dropping off friends or family this summer.

BBC News