East Midlands Airport Rapid Drop Off Charges Oct 2026

The announcement by East Midlands Airport of changes to its Rapid Drop Off pricing and a reduction in the permitted waiting time is frustrating. Whilst I welcome the investment the airport has made over the last couple of years, the way the Rapid Drop Off is currently set up feels stacked against consumers.

I already deal with numerous complaints from constituents and people across the UK who have received a £100 parking penalty notice because they simply forgot to pay. Increasing the price while simultaneously reducing the time allowed is only likely to make this situation worse.

Many people rely on family or friends to drop them off before heading away on holiday, and in the early hours of the morning, or the stress of the moment, it is very easy to forget to make a payment. I have asked the airport on multiple occasions to install a payment machine inside the terminal, allowing family and friends to pay once they have been dropped off.

Unfortunately, the airport has refused to do so.

We have seen a growing number of airports increase charges for drop-off areas in recent years, and it is an unwelcome trend. I also note that nearby Birmingham Airport still offers 10 minutes free. However, my concern has always been that the current arrangement at East Midlands Airport appears to set people up to fail.

I have now written to the Minister with the responsibility for Consumer Protection to raise this issue directly with her, as I believe the current system is unfair. I also raised the issue directly with the Minister for Aviation on the floor of the House just a few weeks ago, and I will continue to press East Midlands Airport to make this simple change and ensure its parking system is fairer for passengers in the future.