UK Airport Kiss-and-Fly Fees Increase: RAC Report Highlights Busiest Hubs

Michael

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Post on Jul 18, 2025

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UK Airport Kiss-and-Fly Fees Soar: RAC Report Exposes Costliest Hubs for Drivers

Kiss-and-fly airport parking is becoming increasingly expensive across the UK, according to a new report from the RAC. The motoring organisation's findings highlight significant price hikes at major airports, leaving travellers facing hefty charges for convenient drop-offs and pick-ups. This news is sure to impact the travel plans of many, particularly those on a budget.

The RAC's comprehensive survey analysed drop-off charges at 20 of the UK's busiest airports, revealing a concerning trend of escalating fees. The report comes at a time when many families are already grappling with the rising cost of living, adding further pressure on holiday budgets. The impact on short-break getaways and family vacations could be significant.

Which Airports are Hitting Travellers Hardest?

The report doesn't mince words, naming and shaming some of the most expensive airports for kiss-and-fly services. While prices vary widely, some locations are significantly more costly than others. For example:

• London Heathrow: Frequently cited as one of the most expensive, Heathrow's charges continue to be a major concern for travellers. The report details the specific costs, allowing readers to compare against other airports. (Specific figures from the RAC report should be inserted here).

• Gatwick Airport: Similar to Heathrow, Gatwick's fees are also highlighted as being significantly high, adding to the overall cost of air travel. (Specific figures from the RAC report should be inserted here).

• Manchester Airport: A northern hub experiencing considerable price increases, Manchester's charges are drawing criticism from both drivers and passengers. (Specific figures from the RAC report should be inserted here).

The Growing Concern Over Airport Parking Costs

The RAC's report isn't just about highlighting individual airport fees; it also underscores a broader issue concerning the affordability of airport parking. The rising cost of kiss-and-fly services, combined with the already expensive cost of long-stay parking, is putting significant strain on travellers' finances. Many are now forced to reconsider their travel options, potentially opting for less convenient alternatives like public transport or costly taxi services.

What are the Alternatives?

For budget-conscious travellers, the increasing costs of kiss-and-fly services necessitate exploring alternative options. These include:

• Public Transport: Utilizing trains or buses can often be a more economical solution, although it may require extra time and planning. Consider researching local transport links prior to travel.

• Pre-booked Meet and Greet: While often more expensive than the drop-off charge alone, a pre-booked meet and greet service can offer peace of mind, especially for those travelling with young children or large amounts of luggage.

• Park and Ride: Further out car parks linked to airport shuttle services. This often reduces the overall cost.

Looking Ahead: What Does This Mean for Travellers?

The RAC's report serves as a stark reminder for travellers to factor in airport drop-off charges when budgeting for their trips. Comparing prices across different airports and considering alternative transportation methods are crucial for keeping costs down. The organisation is urging airports to be more transparent about their pricing and explore fairer options for drivers. With air travel likely to remain popular, the issue of affordable airport parking is unlikely to disappear anytime soon.

For more detailed information and the full RAC report, [link to the RAC report here]. Are you concerned about rising airport charges? Share your thoughts in the comments below.