Gatwick to introduce drop-off and pick-up fee
Gatwick Airport is introducing a £5 fee to drop passengers off or pick them up from the terminal as it looks to claw back revenue.
The charge will start from 2021 – no specific date has been confirmed – with the airport saying will also cut down on traffic and reduce carbon emissions.
The move will bring Gatwick into line with many other UK airports although Heathrow, its key competitor, is among those which do not impose such a charge.
Chief Commercial Officer Jonathan Pollard said: "Gatwick has just gone through the most challenging period in its history and this new drop off charging scheme will give us a new revenue stream to aid recovery from the COVID-19 crisis and ultimately help us continue as an important provider of economic prosperity and jobs across the region.
"Gatwick is also committed to promoting sustainable travel and this new scheme will encourage passengers to consider more sustainable transport options, including public transport services or parking options at the airport, which only involves two single car trips, compared to two return trips when dropping off."
Anyone wishing to avoid the fee can drop passengers off and pick them up from the long star car parks from where a free shuttle bus operates to the terminals.
Gatwick said the move will reduce ‘kiss and fly’ travellers which require two return car journeys and make up 15% of trips to the airport.
It is also exploring ways to minimise the costs for those who regularly drop off and pick up at the South Terminal to access to the train station
"Suitable solutions for Blue Badge holder’s convenience are also being looked at," it said.
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