Gatwick Airport has announced it will raise its forecourt drop-off charges by £1, bringing the minimum fee to £7 from 2 May 2025. The change follows a review of operational costs and is part of the airport’s ongoing strategy to manage traffic and invest in infrastructure.
The charge applies to both North and South Terminal drop-off zones and can be paid online, via phone, or through the airport’s AutoPay system. Importantly, Blue Badge holders will remain exempt from the fee.
The forecourt charge was first introduced in 2021 as a measure to reduce congestion and fund improvements across the airport. However, the latest rise is likely to hit the taxi and private hire sector hardest. Many operators are expected to pass the increased cost on to passengers, potentially pushing fares even higher.
Gatwick’s leadership insists that encouraging greater use of public transport is a key goal. The airport is under pressure to meet a Planning Inspectorate requirement that at least 54% of passengers arrive by public transport—a figure it has yet to achieve.
Stewart Wingate, Gatwick Airport’s Chief Executive, said fare hikes would be considered a last resort, with a greater focus on enhancing train and coach connectivity. A public consultation will also be launched to gather feedback on the airport’s future development plans, including a second runway and fee changes. A government decision is expected by October 2025.
For those looking to avoid the drop-off charge altogether, Gatwick’s Long Stay car parks remain free for up to two hours, with shuttle buses connecting passengers to the terminals.
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