Edinburgh Airport Announces Drop-Off Fee Increase
Edinburgh Airport has revealed plans to increase drop-off fees by £2.50, raising the cost to £8.50 starting next week. This adjustment applies to a 10-minute stay within the dedicated drop-off and pick-up zone located directly outside the main terminal building.
Airport management described the fee increase as "unavoidable," citing the necessity to generate additional revenue following an "unacceptable" £8 million rise in the company’s business rates bill.
The new pricing structure will take effect from 18 May. Additionally, the airport will discontinue the 50% discount previously offered to electric vehicle users.
Statements from Airport Leadership
Chief Executive Gordan Dewar commented on the situation, emphasizing the impact of rising costs across the sector.
"Like many across the hospitality and tourism sectors who have seen business rates soar, we have no choice but to pass part of this cost on to passengers."
Alternative Drop-Off Options and Current Pricing
Edinburgh Airport will maintain a free drop-off and pick-up zone located approximately a 10-minute walk from the terminal, within the long-stay car park. This area allows for a maximum stay of 30 minutes, and the airport plans to increase the number of available spaces there.
At present, the drop-off fee at Edinburgh Airport is £6 for a 10-minute stay. The short-stay terminal car park charges £7 for up to 15 minutes and £14 for 30 minutes. Other short-stay car parks situated further from the terminal generally range from £7 to £10, with fees rising significantly for stays exceeding one hour.
Context on Parking and Business Rates
Last year, BBC Scotland News reported on drivers parking in nearby laybys to avoid parking fees at the airport.
The recent increase in drop-off fees follows a 142% rise in Edinburgh Airport’s business rates. Dewar has stated this represents the largest cost increase experienced by any airport in Scotland and the UK.
"This decision to impose an unplanned and wholly disproportionate £8 million rates increase has an immediate and negative impact on our business.
We made this clear in correspondence with the Lothians assessor, who set the increase, and in discussions with the Scottish government, which has endorsed it.
In practical terms, it equates to funding around 200 jobs, two aircraft stands, or five new security lanes.
It is not a cost that can be absorbed; it must be covered, and trade-offs like this are unfortunately unavoidable."
Comparisons with Other Airports and Official Responses
For comparison, drop-off fees at Bristol and Gatwick airports are also £8.50, while Glasgow and Aberdeen airports charge £7.
Edinburgh Airport has formally communicated its concerns regarding the current business rates process to the convener of the Lothian Valuation Joint Board, responsible for setting non-domestic rates, as well as to the First Minister and the Public Finance Minister.
"We have always accepted that, given our size, we should pay more, but the scale of this increase is simply unacceptable."
The Scottish Government has been contacted for comment on this matter.
