Just at the moment when airlines are pulling back on some of their nickel-and-dime fees (many nickels and many dimes, actually), it may be the airports’ time to get into charging new ones.
London Gatwick appears to be taking the lead, announcing that starting in January drivers entering the airport to drop off or pickup passengers will face a £5 toll.
And just like the airlines before them, the airport has a variety of explanations for the charge, saying on the one hand it’s to save the planet and on the other it’s to save their budget.
The airport’s chief commercial officer told The Independent that “Gatwick is also committed to promoting sustainable travel and this new scheme will encourage passengers to consider more sustainable transport options, including public transport services or parking options at the airport, which only involves two single car trips, compared to two return trips when dropping off.”
And, also: “Gatwick has just gone through the most challenging period in its history and this new drop off charging scheme will give us a new revenue stream to aid recovery from the Covid-19 crisis.” The airport estimates losing £321 million between January and June.
I invite you to guess which of the two objectives is the most important one for them!