Drop off charges to go up at East Midlands Airport

East Midlands Airport has announced it is increasing its charges for rapid drop off directly outside its terminal from tomorrow.

The charge has remained unchanged and among the lowest of UK airports at £5 for 15 minutes for the past five years.

It is to go up to £8 for ten minutes from 3pm on tomorrow, Tuesday 29th September in response to significant inflationary pressures and ongoing investment requirements say the airport.

·The Rapid Drop Off area offers a premium space just steps from the check-in hall for customer convenience.

An alternative free arrangement is available, with free parking for up to an hour in a long-stay car park ten minutes’ walk to the terminal.

Last year the Rapid Drop Off area benefitted from investment in an improved layout and barrierless, cashless payment arrangements to improve traffic flow. Easy payment is available online, by phone or automatically via an AutoPay account.

Free drop-off remains available for blue badge holders in bays in Short Stay 1 car park close to the terminal.

East Midlands Airport has announced an increase in its Rapid Drop Off car park charges. Photo: NEMM

Airport drop-off areas help to manage on-site congestion, with charges managing what is the most polluting form of transport to the airport.

A spokesperson for the Airport said: “The new fees are proportionate in the context of inflationary increases and brings East Midlands Airport in line with other UK airports.

Revenue generated from parking and other fees helps support future investment, ensuring the airport can continue to grow and provide a high-quality experience and low-cost flights for customers.”

East Midlands Airport is currently halfway through a £120m investment programme which has seen substantial improvements including upgrades to security, terminal facilities and airfield infrastructure.

The airport also maintains a sustainable transport fund, which supports local bus services that connect surrounding communities with the airport, helping improve accessibility and reduce reliance on private cars.

The airport is well served by frequent 24/7 bus services from Nottingham, Derby and Leicester and surrounding communities, with stops close to the terminal.