As the UK’s second busiest airport, Gatwick offers flights to around 230 destinations in 70 countries. You must know the Gatwick drop off charge when travelling to and from Gatwick Airport, which applies when you enter the designated drop zones closest to the terminals. The airport charges £6 if you stay for up to 10 minutes to drop off passengers. After that, it costs £1 for each additional minute, but you can’t stay longer than 30 minutes in this area.

These Gatwick charges are essential for supporting airport parking and maintaining low fares. It is crucial to pay Gatwick drop off charge on time to avoid fines. To prevent penalties from the PCO (Public Carriage Office) at Gatwick Airport, it is important to know the PCN (Parking Charge Notice) hotspots. The airport’s drop-off Gatwick zones use an ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) system that monitors the duration of each vehicle’s stay.

Gatwick Drop-Off Zone Locations

The Gatwick Airport drop off payment zones are purposefully designed areas where passengers and their families can securely and conveniently drop off travellers before departure.

Proximity to Terminal Entrances

These are the two drop of Gatwick terminals near the entrances to ensure quick access to check-in areas:

  • North Terminal drop-off zone, Car Park 6, Level 4
  • South Terminal drop-off zone, Car Park 3, Level 0

Definite Zones for Each Terminal

Drop-off Gatwick zones for the North and South terminals have clear signs and instructions to help the process run smoothly.

Guidelines for Drivers

Drivers should stay in their cars and keep drop-off times short, as these areas are monitored for safety and tied to the Gatwick drop charge.

Additional Amenities

Additionally, there are nearby services, such as shuttle rides and assistance for travellers with limited mobility, to ensure a comprehensive support experience.

Instructions for Paying the Gatwick Drop-Off Charge

You cannot pay Gatwick drop off payment at the airport’s ticket machine. Instead, you must make your payment online or via phone. Moreover, these charges are not accepted at the terminals.

Over the Phone

To pay Gatwick drop off fee, follow these steps:

  1. Dial the dedicated line: 0300 174 4503
  2. Follow the automated prompts
  3. Provide your payment details securely

This method allows you to pay Gatwick drop off charge easily and without delays.

Autopay

Using Autopay is one of the most convenient ways to manage the Gatwick charge. Register your vehicle and set up a direct debit to pay automatically when you use the drop-off Gatwick zones—ideal for frequent flyers and PCO drivers.

Online Pay

To pay Gatwick drop off payment online:

  • Enter your vehicle registration on the official Gatwick website
  • Submit your payment securely
  • If you use Autopay, your Gatwick drop charge will be processed automatically

Different Considerations Before Arriving at Gatwick Airport

Travelling can often be complex, particularly when heading to destinations like Gatwick Airport. Planning ahead carefully is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Key Things to Consider:

  • Transportation: Choose between driving, rideshare, public transport, or taxi
  • Drop-Off Points: Know where the drop of Gatwick zones are located
  • Timing: Account for delays and leave with extra time

Consequences of Failing to Pay Drop-Off Charges

Not paying the Gatwick drop off charge can lead to serious consequences, including a £100 Parking Charge Notice (PCN), increasing to £150 if unpaid within 14 days. Ignoring this Gatwick charge may even result in a court order.

Also, failing to pay Gatwick drop off fee causes unnecessary delays for others and impacts airport operations.

Tips to Help You Prevent Drop-Off Charges

If you’d rather avoid the Gatwick drop charge altogether:

  • Use the long-stay car park for free parking (up to 2 hours)
  • The short-stay car park costs £6 for up to 30 minutes and is a 5-minute walk from the terminal
  • Use the free shuttle service from long-stay parking

Choosing the right parking solution can help you bypass the Gatwick pay drop off system while keeping your journey stress-free.