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Excessive Drop-off Fees at Major Scottish Airports Criticised
Scotland’s major airports are facing criticism over their high pick-up and drop-off charges, which have been labelled as a “rip-off” amidst rising profits. The fees, commonly referred to as the “kiss-and-fly tax,” have significantly increased, with both Glasgow and Aberdeen airports now charging £7 for the first 15 minutes in short-stay zones. In comparison, Edinburgh Airport has raised its charge to £6 for the first 10 minutes as of last year.
Recent financial reports revealed that the combined pre-tax profits for Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen airports reached £255.7 million in 2024, which reflects a £101.8 million increase from the previous year. Consumer and motoring disputes expert Scott Dixon from Edinburgh stated that motorists are perceived as “lucrative cash cows” by airports that are already enjoying soaring profits.
Although airport representatives have suggested that free drop-off zones are available further from the terminal and that the charges are necessary for reinvestment, concerns remain about accessibility, especially for disabled passengers, who may find alternatives limited.
The issue was highlighted by Derek McEwan, a holidaymaker from Bathgate in West Lothian. He remarked that passengers are being overcharged, especially since airports were initially developed with public funding and did not impose such fees for drop-offs.
Further analysis indicates that the UK has some of the highest drop-off charges in the world, with Glasgow Airport increasing its fee for the fourth consecutive year, now charging £7 for the initial 15 minutes and an additional £1 for every minute thereafter. At Aberdeen Airport, the fee also increased from £5.50 to £7 for the same duration.
Edinburgh Airport, which initially introduced a £1 drop-off fee in 2010, has seen its charge rise to £6 for 10 minutes, generating substantial profits of over £144.4 million in 2024.
In response to the criticisms, both AGS Airports and Edinburgh Airport have pointed out that the rising costs they face, including a significant increase in business rates, necessitate these charges to maintain competitiveness and invest in infrastructure. AGS has stated that unlike many airports, its passenger volumes remain below pre-COVID levels, and they do not receive governmental financial support.
AGS Airports has offered a concession for Blue Badge holders, providing 30 minutes of free parking in their Short Stay car park near the terminal to assist disabled passengers.
Major UK airports typically impose short drop-off fees that range from £5 to £10, reflecting a trend that raises concerns about affordability for travellers in Scotland.
