Gatwick drop-off charge 2026: £10 and how to avoid it
Last checked 14 November 2026 by Alpine Chauffeurs, Nottingham
Quick answer
Dropping off at Gatwick's North or South Terminal costs £10 for the first 10 minutes, then £1 a minute up to 20 minutes, with a 30-minute maximum stay and a £30 cap. You pay by midnight the day after. The free option is the Long Stay car park: free for up to 2 hours, with a free shuttle bus to the terminals.
How much it costs
| What | Detail |
|---|---|
| First 10 minutes | £10 |
| Each extra minute | £1, up to 20 minutes |
| Maximum charge | £30 |
| Maximum stay | 30 minutes |
| Pay by | Midnight the day after your visit |
| If you don't pay | £100 Parking Charge Notice, £60 if paid within 14 days |
| Blue Badge holders | Exempt, but you must register in advance |
Checked against gatwickairport.com on 14 November 2026.
Why it keeps going up
Gatwick's charge has doubled since it began. It started at £5 in 2021, went to £6 in January 2024 and £7 in May 2025, then jumped to £10 on 6 January 2026. Gatwick blamed rising costs, including business rates. It's now one of the most expensive drop-off charges in the UK.
Free drop-off at Gatwick
Park in a Long Stay car park for up to 2 hours free of charge and catch the free shuttle bus to the terminal. It takes longer, so build in extra time, especially on busy summer mornings.
Nottingham to Gatwick, charge included
Our Nottingham to Gatwick fare is a fixed £275 per car to the North or South Terminal, with the drop-off charge included and flight tracking on the way home.
Sources
Common questions
How much is the Gatwick drop-off charge?
£10 for up to 10 minutes since 6 January 2026, then £1 a minute, up to a £30 maximum.
Is it the same at North and South Terminal?
Yes. The same charge applies at both terminals.
Can I drop off for free at Gatwick?
Yes, in a Long Stay car park for up to 2 hours, with a free shuttle bus to the terminals.
Is the drop-off charge included in a chauffeur fare?
With Alpine Chauffeurs, yes. Our fixed fare includes airport charges and meet-and-greet parking.
More guides
Flying from Gatwick?
Get a fixed price by text in 5 minutes.