When heading to an airport, whether for a holiday or business trip, the last thing you want is a surprise fee just for getting dropped off. That’s exactly why understanding Stansted drop off charge, and how it compares to other London airports, can save you both time and money.
In 2025, almost every major airport in London has implemented some kind of drop-off charge, with rules and fees that vary. In this blog, we’ll break it down so you know what to expect, how to avoid unnecessary charges, and which airport offers the best deal for quick drop-offs.
What Is the Stansted Drop Off Charge?
London Stansted Airport charges drivers for using the designated drop-off zone near the terminal. This zone is designed for quick passenger drop-offs and not for waiting or parking.
As of 2025:
- Charge: £7 for up to 15 minutes
- £25 for stays between 15–30 minutes
- Vehicles staying longer or re-entering within 30 minutes may face penalties
- Blue Badge holders can still use the drop-off zone free of charge (with advance registration)
There is a free drop-off option available at the Mid Stay Car Park, which offers a shuttle service to the terminal, taking roughly 5-10 minutes.
Stansted vs Other Major London Airports
Let’s compare Stansted’s drop off charges with four other major airports in London: Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, and London City.
Heathrow Airport Drop Off Charges
- Charge: £5 per entry at all terminals
- Payment must be made online or by phone (no cash or card machines)
- No free terminal drop-off option
- Blue Badge holders must register for exemption
Verdict: Cheaper than Stansted’s £7 fee, but there’s no nearby free alternative like Stansted’s Mid Stay car park.
Gatwick Airport Drop Off Charges
- Charge: £6 for up to 10 minutes
- £1 extra for every minute over 10 (up to 20 mins max)
- No free drop-off near the terminals
- Free drop-off at Long Stay Car Park with shuttle bus to terminals
Verdict: Slightly cheaper than Stansted if you stay under 10 minutes, but penalties kick in quickly.
Luton Airport Drop Off Charges
- Charge: £5 for up to 10 minutes
- £1 per minute from 10–15 mins
- £95 penalty if you stop on the approach roads
- Free drop-off at Mid Stay Car Park, 10-minute walk or free shuttle
Verdict: One of the cheaper options if you’re quick. But strict enforcement means you need to plan precisely.
London City Airport Drop Off Charges
- Charge: No charge for drop-offs in front of the terminal
- Free for all vehicles, including taxis and private cars
- Efficient layout means very short walking distance to terminal
Verdict: The clear winner! London City remains the only major airport in London with no drop-off fee.
Summary Comparison Table
| Airport | Fee (First 10–15 Mins) | Free Drop-Off Option? | Penalties for Overstay |
| Stansted | £7 (up to 15 mins) | Yes (Mid Stay) | Yes (£25+) |
| Heathrow | £5 (flat rate) | No | Yes (£80 fine) |
| Gatwick | £6 (up to 10 mins) | Yes (Long Stay) | Yes (£1/min after 10) |
| Luton | £5 (up to 10 mins) | Yes (Mid Stay) | Yes (£95 roadside fine) |
| London City | Free | N/A | No |
Tips to Avoid or Reduce Drop-Off Charges
- Use free shuttle services from mid or long stay car parks
- Pre-book parking or drop-off zones if the airport allows
- Plan your arrival time to keep the drop-off quick and efficient
- Share ride details ahead of time so passengers are ready to go
- Use public transport or minicabs.co.uk to shift the fee onto a professional service
Final Thoughts
While the Stansted drop off charge might feel steep at £7, it’s not the most expensive in London. In fact, compared to Heathrow’s lack of a free option and Gatwick’s minute-by-minute penalties, Stansted at least provides a free shuttle alternative.
If cost is a concern, consider London City Airport, which still allows free drop-offs, a rare thing in 2025. Otherwise, planning ahead and using free mid-stay car parks can help keep those charges low, no matter which airport you’re using.
FAQs
1. Is there a way to avoid the Stansted drop off charge?
Yes! Use the Mid Stay Car Park, which offers a free shuttle to the terminal. It’s about a 5–10-minute ride and is completely free for drop-offs.
2. How do I pay the Stansted drop off charge?
Payment is made on exit from the drop-off zone using card or contactless. There are no cash options available.
3. What happens if I stay more than 15 minutes at Stansted?
You’ll be charged £25 for staying between 15–30 minutes. Exceeding this may incur further penalties.
4. Do minicabs or taxis pay the drop-off charge?
Yes, both minicabs and taxis must pay the same fee unless they use the free Mid Stay option.
5. Which London airport has no drop-off charge?
London City Airport currently does not charge any fee for drop-offs right outside the terminal.
