RAC Exposes Rising Kiss-and-Fly Fees At UK's Busiest Airports

Michael

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Post on Jul 19, 2025

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RAC Exposes Soaring Kiss-and-Fly Fees at UK's Busiest Airports: Passengers Face Hidden Charges

Airports across the UK are increasingly relying on hefty “kiss-and-fly” fees to boost their revenue, leaving passengers facing unexpected and substantial charges, according to a new report from the RAC. The motoring organisation’s findings reveal a significant disparity in pricing, with some airports charging significantly more than others for the convenience of a quick drop-off or pick-up. This surge in fees is adding to the already considerable cost of air travel, prompting concerns about transparency and fairness.

The RAC's investigation highlights the growing trend of airports generating income beyond flight tickets and parking, leveraging short-stay drop-off zones as a lucrative revenue stream. This practice, while providing a convenient service for passengers, is raising questions about whether the charges are justified, particularly given the often-limited time spent in these designated areas.

H2: Which Airports are Hitting Passengers Hardest?

The RAC report doesn't name and shame specific airports, but their data paints a concerning picture. The investigation uncovered significant variations in charges across the UK's busiest airports, ranging from relatively modest fees to eye-watering sums for a few minutes' use of a designated drop-off zone. This lack of uniformity suggests a lack of regulation and potential exploitation of passengers who may not be fully aware of the costs before arriving at the airport.

• London Heathrow: Sources suggest Heathrow is amongst the airports with some of the highest fees. While exact figures aren't publicly available in the RAC report, anecdotal evidence from passengers points towards a considerable expense for using the kiss-and-fly service. This is particularly concerning given Heathrow's already high cost of travel.
• Gatwick: Similar to Heathrow, Gatwick is reportedly charging substantial fees for its kiss-and-fly service. The RAC's data points to a trend of higher charges in major airports, potentially due to higher demand and operational costs.
• Manchester Airport: While not as high as some London airports, Manchester Airport is also implicated in the trend of increasingly expensive kiss-and-fly charges. This demonstrates the widespread nature of this practice across the UK's major airports.

H2: The RAC's Call for Greater Transparency

The RAC is calling for greater transparency from airports regarding their pricing structures. The organisation believes that passengers should be clearly informed about the cost of using kiss-and-fly services well in advance of their journey, preventing unexpected expenses at the airport. This is crucial, particularly for those on a tight budget or those travelling with families.

H3: What Passengers Can Do

The RAC offers the following advice to passengers:

• Check airport websites beforehand: Always check the airport's website for details on parking and drop-off charges before you arrive.
• Consider alternatives: Explore alternative transport options such as public transport or pre-booked airport transfer services. These might offer better value for money, especially for longer journeys.
• Share your experiences: If you feel the charges are unfair or excessive, report your experience to the airport and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

H2: The Future of Airport Pricing

The RAC's report raises significant questions about the future of airport pricing and the balance between generating revenue and providing fair and transparent services to passengers. The issue highlights the need for robust regulation and consumer protection in the aviation sector. It remains to be seen whether airports will respond to the growing public concern and implement fairer pricing policies. The RAC’s ongoing investigation will continue to monitor this evolving situation.

[Call to Action - subtle]: Stay informed about the latest developments by following the RAC on social media and visiting their website for further information on travel costs and consumer rights.