The simple act of saying goodbye at the airport is becoming increasingly expensive. Across the UK, “kiss-and-fly” fees – charges for briefly dropping off passengers – are soaring, turning a heartfelt farewell into a frustrating financial burden.
Most major airports now demand around £7 for just a few minutes in the designated drop-off zone. This holiday season, families face a difficult choice: pay a hefty fee for a quick goodbye, or rush a loved one through security, potentially adding stress to their journey.
Heathrow recently announced a price hike to £7, coupled with a strict 10-minute limit. Drivers are voicing their outrage, calling the restrictions unjustifiable. But Heathrow isn’t alone; the trend is sweeping across the nation’s travel hubs.
Southend Airport in Essex currently holds the dubious distinction of being the most expensive, charging £7 for a mere five minutes. Lingering for a longer embrace? That will cost you a staggering £15. A slightly more generous 30-minute stay comes with an £8 price tag.
Gatwick, Leeds Bradford, and Bristol Airports all levy a £7 fee for 10 minutes. Gatwick’s increase, implemented earlier this year, was criticized by taxi campaigners as a blatant attempt to profit from the public.
While many airports are tightening their purse strings, a few are offering a reprieve. London City Airport stands out, providing free drop-off access. Exeter International Airport allows a free 30-minute stay, offering a welcome contrast to the rising costs elsewhere.
Birmingham International and Newquay Cornwall Airports provide a free 10-minute window, while Inverness Airport in Scotland extends that to 15 minutes. However, exceeding these limits quickly triggers charges at most locations.
The system isn’t always straightforward. Some airports, like Heathrow, are implementing “barrierless” systems, requiring payment online after the drop-off. Failure to pay promptly – often by midnight the following day – can result in a hefty penalty, sometimes reaching £100.
The inconsistency across the UK is causing confusion and frustration for travelers. A patchwork of fees and time limits makes planning a simple airport run a logistical challenge. It’s a growing concern for those simply wishing to offer a friend or family member a comforting send-off.
London Luton Airport charges £5 for five minutes, with a £1 per-minute fee thereafter, capped at 20 minutes. Stansted levies £7 for up to 15 minutes, escalating to £25 for anything longer. The City of London Airport charges £6.90 for up to 20 minutes, rising to £14.90 for 30, and a substantial £74.90 for a full 24 hours.
The increasing costs raise questions about the priorities of these major transportation hubs. Are they prioritizing passenger convenience, or simply seeking new revenue streams from those offering a simple act of kindness?
