**Sky-High Charges: UK's Airports Hike 'Kiss-and-Fly' Fees**

Discover the rising costs of drop-off fees at Britain’s busiest airports as the RAC reports that more than half have significantly increased their ’kiss-and-fly’ rates since last July. In a recent survey, it was found that 11 out of the 20 major UK airports, including Gatwick, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, and Southampton, are now charging the maximum fee of £7 for a drop-off that lasts mere minutes.

In stark contrast, the majority of the top 10 busiest airports within the European Union charge no drop-off fees at all. Airports UK, representing the airport industry, acknowledges that while free drop-off options exist away from terminals—like ’park and ride’ facilities—these charges are implemented to manage airport congestion.

Airports like London Heathrow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Liverpool have raised their prices by £1, now costing £6 for 10 to 20 minutes of parking. Notably, Cardiff airport has introduced a fee of £3 for 10 minutes, while London Luton and Manchester airports lead in terms of cost-per-minute, with drivers forking out £5 for just 5 minutes of stop-time.

Rod Dennis, RAC’s senior policy officer, highlights the frustration this causes for those simply dropping off loved ones, as drivers are viewed as a ’captive audience’. The report cited that Frankfurt and Paris Charles de Gaulle charge no fees at all for drop-offs, and only Schipol in the Netherlands enforces a minimal fee of €2.50 (£2.17).

In defense of these fees, Karen Dee, CEO of Airports UK, explained that such charges assist in managing airport impacts on surrounding communities, aiming to reduce congestion and pollution. Comparatively, London City Airport stands out as the only major airport that charges no fee for drop-offs. Responses from airports like Gatwick indicate that these charges also contribute to sustainable transport initiatives, while maintaining exemptions for Blue Badge holders—those with disabilities.

In closing, the situation poses significant challenges for passengers as the summer season approaches, amplifying the sense of urgency regarding these new financial burdens.