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Heathrow isn’t the only London airport that is increasing its drop-off charges in 2026. In another blow from the world of London airports. London City – recently named London’s best airport – will begin charging for drop-offs in 2026 for the first time.
The last day that passengers will be able to be dropped off at London City Airport (LCY) by car for free will be December 31 2025, as the new charge will be introduced in the new year. Until now, London City was the last major UK airport to allow free drop-offs, but it said the change was part of a ‘wider sustainability goal to reduce the number of vehicles travelling to and from the airport’.
The new levy shouldn’t affect too many people, as currently seven out of 10 flyers use public transport to reach LCY. It can be most easily reached using the DLR, and has its own stop on the turquoise line. However, unlike airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick, London City will not offer a free Park and Ride shuttle to the terminal.
Ubers, Black Cabs and other car services will also have to pay the fee – two out of 10 passengers currently arrive at the airport via taxi.
LCY has not yet revealed exactly how much the charge will cost, but it’s expected to be in line with other airports. Gatwick currently charges £7 for a 10-minute stay, and from 2026 Heathrow’s fee will be the same.
A spokesperson for London City told the Independent: ‘The airport’s location and layout mean space is limited and managing vehicle movements safely and efficiently is a key priority.
‘There will be a clearly signposted dedicated drop-off area and an enforcement on the rest of the estate to avoid disruption, and we're working very closely with the London Borough of Newham to control illegal parking in the area.’
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