© 2025 Airport Transfer to Heathrow. All rights reserved.
Whether you’re dropping off a loved one or heading out on your own flight, understanding Gatwick Airport’s drop-off charges can save you both time and unexpected fines. Many passengers arrive at the North Terminal or South Terminal without knowing the latest rules — and end up confused at the barrier or facing penalty notices later.
At Airport Transfer to Heathrow, we not only offer reliable Gatwick and Heathrow transfer services but also help you stay updated with travel essentials, airport procedures, and cost-saving tips.
If you’re driving to Gatwick this year, this detailed guide covers everything you need to know about drop-off locations, payment methods, exemptions, free options, and alternative transport solutions — all updated for 2025.
Gatwick Airport applies a standard charge of £6 for up to 10 minutes in the official drop-off zone, available at both the North and South Terminals.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
£6 for up to 10 minutes
£1 for each additional minute up to 20 minutes
£25 penalty if you stay beyond 20 minutes or fail to pay on time
Unlike short-stay parking, there’s no need to leave your vehicle. You simply drive to the designated drop-off lane, stop briefly to let passengers out, and exit promptly.
However, payment must be made online or by phone — there are no pay machines at the terminal itself.
💡 Pro tip: Always pay within the set time (usually midnight on the next day) to avoid penalties.
North Terminal Drop-Off Zone:
Follow the “Departures” signs when approaching the North Terminal. Once you enter the ramp, the drop-off area will be clearly marked with overhead signs and lanes.
South Terminal Drop-Off Zone:
The South Terminal drop-off area is located on the lower forecourt, directly outside departures. Simply follow the “Drop-Off” or “Express Drop-Off” road signs as you approach.
For travellers staying overnight, check out the Top Gatwick Airport Hotels Near North Terminal — many hotels include complimentary shuttle services to the terminals, helping you avoid drop-off charges altogether.
Not keen on paying £6 just for a quick goodbye? Gatwick provides a completely free drop-off option at its Long Stay Car Parks.
Here’s how it works:
Park at the Long Stay Car Park (North or South Terminal)
Take a free shuttle bus to the terminal — buses run every 10–15 minutes
The total transfer time is approximately 10–12 minutes
This is an ideal solution for families, budget travellers, or anyone with extra time before a flight.
If you’re a Blue Badge holder or transporting a passenger with disabilities, you can apply for a drop-off charge exemption through Gatwick’s online form.
The airport requires your vehicle registration and Blue Badge number, which must be submitted within 24 hours of the drop-off.
This makes Gatwick’s system inclusive while maintaining traffic flow for all passengers.
Instead of worrying about entry barriers, time limits, or payment portals, many travellers now prefer booking a private airport transfer.
Our Gatwick Airport Transfers to and from London service offers door-to-door convenience with:
Flight tracking and 24/7 driver availability
Meet-and-greet services at all terminals
Clean, executive-class vehicles (Mercedes, BMW, etc.)
Fixed pricing with no hidden airport surcharges
Whether you’re coming from East Croydon, London Bridge, or St Pancras, we’ve got you covered with direct routes:
Arriving at the right time can make or break your travel experience.
For guidance, see our in-depth article on How Early to Arrive at Heathrow, Gatwick & Stansted Airports.
In general:
Domestic flights: Arrive 2 hours before departure
European flights: Arrive 2.5 hours before departure
Long-haul flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure
Booking a taxi or chauffeur in advance ensures you never miss a flight due to traffic or parking delays.
After exiting the drop-off area, you must pay the fee by midnight on the following day. Payments can be made via:
The official Gatwick Airport website
The Autopay service, where you register your vehicle once
The NCP Gatwick Drop-Off portal
If you frequently use Gatwick for work or family drop-offs, registering for Autopay can save time and prevent accidental fines.
Failure to pay results in a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) issued to the registered vehicle owner.
If you’re travelling between multiple airports, we can help simplify your journey. Explore our:
We provide executive transfers across London and the UK, connecting Oxford, Reading, Sevenoaks, Birmingham, and other cities with Gatwick Airport efficiently.
Our customer support team is available 24/7 to assist with bookings, fare quotes, and airport information. Visit the Contact Us page to chat or request a call-back.
Whether you’re travelling solo, as a family, or on a business trip, we make London airport transfers simple, affordable, and reliable.
Understanding Gatwick drop-off charges helps you avoid penalties and unnecessary stress before your flight.
While £6 might seem minor, missing the payment deadline can cost you much more.
If you prefer a hassle-free experience, book your private Gatwick airport taxi through Airport Transfer to Heathrow. Our drivers handle everything — from pickup times and traffic planning to terminal coordination — so you can focus on your journey.
Plan ahead, travel smart, and let us get you to Gatwick comfortably and on time.
© 2025 Airport Transfer to Heathrow. All rights reserved.