If you are embarking on a journey through Gatwick Airport and speculating on the estimated cost of dropping off or picking up someone, then you are not alone. Many travellers are often surprised by the fees in effect, but knowing what these charges entail can help you save time, money, and avoid needless stress.
Whether arranging a taxi to do a favour for a family member or hiring an expert chauffeur for airport transfers, you have undoubtedly seen the cumulative number of signs, lanes, and fees. In this blog, we will detail how Gatwick Airport manages pick-up and drop-off, including the charges and their differences, and most importantly, how to plan more innovative travel strategies.
Gatwick Airport issued a press article explaining the reasons behind the necessity of the forecourt charges. There are various reasons to impose these charges:
The main aim is to limit the number of cars in the busy forecourt areas and terminals. This helps to avoid traffic congestion and maintains a smooth flow of traffic around the terminals.
By increasing the cost of terminal drop-offs, the airport cheers travellers and staff to use public transport, such as buses or trains, which have strong links to Gatwick.
A significant portion of the revenue generated from these charges is invested into Gatwick’s Sustainable Transport Fund, supporting efforts to reduce the airport’s ecological impact.
The charges create a new revenue stream, which helps fund airport operations and services.
Gatwick Airport levies a charge for stopping to drop off passengers right outside the terminal zones. Here is all the information you need:
Cost: A minimum charge of £7 applies for up to 10 minutes.
Additional Time: £1 is charged for each extra minute beyond the first 10 minutes. The highest fee is £25, which is reached at 20 minutes. You are allowed to stay for no more than 30 minutes.
Applicable Zones: Passenger drop-off is only available at the North and South terminal forecourts.
Payment: You can make your payment online or by phone until midnight the day after your visit.
Late Payment: Failure to pay the payment may result in a Parking Charge Notice.
These charges aim to reduce congestion and promote smooth traffic movement in crowded areas.
Use the Long Stay Car Park: You can drop off passengers free of charge at the Long Stay Car Parks in both the North and South terminals for a maximum of two hours.
Take the Free Shuttle: A free shuttle bus operates between the Long Stay car parks and the airport terminals.
If you are going to Gatwick to pick somebody up, note that you are not allowed to park right outside the terminal. Pickup is prohibited in drop-off zones; all passengers must be collected from short-stay car parks.
Imagine you are picking up your daughter from Gatwick South, arriving just as her flight from Spain touches down at 6:00 pm. After spending approximately 30 minutes at passport control, you reach the short-stay car park around 6:15 pm. You spent £7 because you stayed for up to 30 minutes. However, with just 5 minutes remaining when she arrives, a temporary red light at the parking meter will suddenly increase your fee to £11.00.
Now, comparing this to what you did two weeks ago when you dropped her off at the same terminal earlier. You enter the drop-off zone, she retrieves her bag, and you resume your journey within 5 minutes. This will incur a flat fee of £6.
This example demonstrates how understanding parking fee structures can significantly impact your planning and budget, enabling you to avoid unexpected charges and making your airport pickups smoother and more affordable.
Not everyone is required to make a payment for the drop-off fees. Here is who is eligible for exemptions:
Blue Badge holders do not have to pay drop-off charges. To apply for a Blue Badge, follow these simple steps:
Long Stay Car Parks: You can park free for up to two hours in the North or South Terminal Long Stay Car Parks and use the free shuttle bus to reach the terminals for dropping off or picking up passengers.
Airport ID Pass Holders: Individuals with specific airport ID passes can also request free drop-off and pick-up services for work purposes.
Emergency Vehicles: Ambulances, police cars, and fire engines are not subject to the fee.
To avoid Gatwick’s pick-up and drop-off charges, you can follow a few tips or use the free Long Stay Car Parks:
Long Stay Option: This is the most convenient free option for both pick-ups and drop-offs, enabling you to wait at no cost.
Use the Long Stay for Self-Flyers: If you are the passenger, you can drive to the Long Stay car park, leave your vehicle there, and then take the shuttle to the terminal for your flight.
Long Stay Option: Use the Long Stay car park to wait for your passenger’s arrival.
Coordinate Arrival Times: Communicate with your passenger to minimise the time you spend in the Short Stay car park, saving you money.
Both North and South Terminals provide free parking for up to two hours in their designated Long Stay car parks.
Blue Badge Holders: Those with a valid Blue Badge can register their vehicle in advance to request an exemption from the drop-off fee.
Pre-booked Taxi: If you require a taxi, consider booking one in advance with your local taxi company and provide your flight number so they can accommodate any potential delays.
Short Stay Parking: If the Long Stay car park is not suitable, consider the Short Stay car park as an alternative.
Both pick-up and drop-off options incur a fee, and neither option is free unless you opt for the Long Stay free parking with shuttle bus service. Pick-ups from short-stay car parks are more expensive due to more extended stays, while quick drop-offs at the terminal curbside are less costly. Your optimal strategy depends on your schedule, passengers’ requirements, and your comfort level with airport logistics.
Handling Gatwick Airport’s drop-off and pick-up fees can be complicated for everyone. That is where Link Executive Transfers steps in. With our airport transfer services, you can experience a seamless and convenient journey without concerns about pick-up and drop-off charges. Our expert drivers handle all the details, allowing you to concentrate on your journey.
