London Gatwick Airport to significantly raise passenger drop-off fees in 2026

London Gatwick Airport (LGW) has announced a substantial increase in its passenger drop-off charges, set to take effect in 2026. This move will impact all departing passengers utilizing the airport's vehicle drop-off zones, adding to the overall cost of air travel from the major London hub. The specific new fee structure and implementation details are expected to be fully disclosed closer to the effective date.

This decision by Gatwick follows a broader trend among London's busiest airports. London City Airport is introducing a drop-off fee for the first time, while Heathrow Airport is also planning to hike its existing vehicle charges in 2026. These synchronized increases across multiple key aviation gateways in the capital signal a concerted effort to manage traffic congestion, promote public transport use, and potentially generate additional revenue.

Passengers will need to be aware of these impending changes to plan their journeys accordingly. The article is expected to provide guidance on how to potentially avoid these new or increased charges, offering practical advice for travelers seeking to mitigate their departure costs from Gatwick and other affected London airports.