Bristol Airport has been named the UK's most expensive airport, just in time for the peak summer season, according to a new study by idealo. The analysis of secondary costs across major UK airports found that passengers at Bristol face an £8.50 minimum drop-off charge, up £1.50 since January, and £110 for a seven-day parking stay.
Business class lounge access at Bristol costs £48.99, among the highest in the ranking, while a pint of lager sets travelers back £7.53. The airport's high fees come amid plans for expansion, including a £400 million investment to increase capacity from 10 million to 12 million passengers, extend the runway for long-haul flights, and add more terminal facilities.
Why Is Bristol Airport So Expensive?
In 2023, the High Court ruled that Bristol Airport could expand its current capacity. The airport's CEO, Dave Lees, highlighted strong support for the plans, with a YouGov poll showing 44% of people in the West of England backing the expansion, while only 24% opposed it. The expansion is expected to create 1,000 on-site jobs and 36,000 jobs in the wider area.
Other Airports Raising Fees
Edinburgh Airport has also increased its drop-off fees to £8.50, up 42%. CEO Gordon Dewar cited an extra £8 million business rates bill as the reason for the hike. Despite this, Edinburgh remains the most affordable UK airport, with seven-day parking at £39.99, lounge access at £40, and an average pint price of £6.55.
UK's 5 Most Expensive Airports by Drop-Off Fees
- Bristol International Airport: £8.50
- London City Airport: £8
- Luton Airport: £7
- Newcastle Airport: £5
- Liverpool John Lennon Airport: £6
Other airports in the ranking include Aberdeen, Gatwick, Manchester, and Glasgow. Manchester was recently ranked the worst UK airport for delays by the Civil Aviation Authority.
