Luton Airport drop-off charge

April 8, 2009

London Luton Airport announce drop-off charge

London Luton Airport is facing a backlash from travellers after announcing plans to charge those dropping off friends and loved ones at the airport.

The new 'kiss and drop' levy will be enforced by barriers which will take payment as the driver leaves, charging at a rate of £1 for 10 minutes. The charge is due to come into effect later in the month and follows just weeks from plans to allow passengers to jump the security queue for £3.

Those travellers being driven to the airport who decide not to pay the fare will be left instead at one of the airport's car parks, from which a bus journey will be necessary to reach the terminal.

In response to the announcement, easyJet spokesman Andrew McConnell said: "Whatever next? We have seen charges for fast track security and plastic bags. Now they want one pound for dropping somebody off at the airport.

"This new scheme is a recipe for traffic chaos, which will see people stopping on double yellow lines or parking in the bus lane. Passengers already pay to use the airport facilities as part of their airfare. The danger here is that people will choose other airports instead, rather than be forced to pay these charges."

Travellers flying from London Luton Airport may prefer to option to drive themselves and park their car. With Holiday Extras, airport car parking can prove a great value option with savings of up to 60% available off the gate prices.