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Paying the Gatwick Airport Drop-Off Fee in 2025

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Mar 20, 2025

Paying the Gatwick Airport Drop-Off Fee in 2025

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If you're planning to drop someone off at London Gatwick Airport, whether as a private hire driver or simply giving a friend or family member a ride, it's essential to understand the drop-off charges in 2025.

This guide provides all the key details, from the fees involved and payment methods to available free parking options.

By staying informed, you can avoid unexpected Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) and ensure a hassle-free drop-off experience.

Key Topics Covered:

  • What is the drop-off fee at Gatwick Airport?
  • Where are the designated drop-off zones?
  • How can you pay the charge?
  • What happens if you don’t pay?
  • Are there free drop-off options?
  • Where should you pick up passengers?
  • Do private hire drivers receive any discounts?


Gatwick Airport Drop-Off Charges in 2025

For those dropping off passengers at either the North or South Terminal, the standard fee is £6 for the first 10 minutes. The charge increases the longer you stay, so it's best to keep your drop-off time short.

Fee Breakdown:

  • £6 for the first 10 minutes
  • £1 per additional minute (up to 20 minutes)
  • Maximum charge of £26, with a 30-minute limit

To avoid fines, make sure to pay the charge by midnight the following day. The system uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and operates 24/7 throughout the year.

Where to Find the Drop-Off Zones

Passengers can be dropped off directly outside the terminals in designated areas. Simply follow the airport signs to locate them.

 North Terminal Drop-Off:

Located on the lower level between the Sofitel Hotel and the multi-storey car park.

View on Google Maps

South Terminal Drop-Off:

Situated on the lower-level forecourt area, with clear signposts leading to it.

View on Google Maps

There are no barriers in these areas—just pull into a bay, drop off your passenger, and exit promptly.

How to Pay the Drop-Off Charge

Payments must be made by midnight the day after your drop-off. It's important to note that the fee cannot be paid in advance, as ANPR cameras calculate the exact charge based on entry and exit times.

Payment Methods:

  1. AutoPay Account – Register your vehicle for automatic payments. This is ideal for frequent visitors.
  2. Online Payment – Pay via the official London Gatwick Airport website.
  3. Phone Payment – Call the automated telephone service.

🚫 You cannot pay at airport ticket machines—only the three methods above are available.

What Happens if You Don’t Pay?

Failing to pay the drop-off charge on time results in a £100 Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). However, if paid within 14 days, this is reduced to £60.

💡 Frequent drivers should set up AutoPay to prevent unnecessary fines.

Free Drop-Off Options

For those looking to avoid the fee, Gatwick’s Long Stay car parks provide a free drop-off option. You can park for up to two hours at no cost, and passengers can take a free shuttle bus to the terminal.

How to use this option:

  • Follow signs to North or South Terminal Long Stay parking.
  • Take a ticket at the barrier and park in a designated free space.
  • Keep the ticket, as it will be needed when exiting.

Where to Pick Up Passengers

Pick-ups are only allowed in Short Stay car parks at both terminals. However, you can also park in Long Stay car parks for up to two hours for free while waiting for your passenger.

Do Private Hire Vehicles Get a Discount?

No, private hire vehicles (PHVs) do not receive any exemptions or discounts on the drop-off charge. Drivers are responsible for paying the fee each time they use the drop-off zones.

About Capital Hire management

Capital Hire Management Ltd. is London's best PCO car rental company, which provides top-notch vehicles and exceptional services to professional drivers like you! If you are looking for affordable car hire for PCO car rental please visit our website https://www.capitalhiremanagement.co.uk/ to explore our latest fleet.

our excellence is validated by driver ratings on Trustpilot. we offer access to new or recent model cars along with comprehensive training and support to enhance your profitability, safety, and overall satisfaction as an Uber driver.

Visit our London Hub located at 56 High Street Wealdstone Harrow HA3 7AF, London, reach out via email to us, or give us a call at 0208426005 to get started.

 

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