Belfast International Airport has announced that it will increase drop-off charges from Monday, March 9. Anyone dropping off or picking up passengers will need to pay the increased fee for stays of under 10 minutes in the airport’s drop-off area.
Increase in Drop-off Charges
Earlier, people who came to the airport on bikes paid just £3 to use the drop-off zone next to the terminal building in the largest airport in Northern Ireland.
From March 9, the airport is going to charge £5 for motorists to drop off passengers at its terminals. This change in price is an increase of 66% of its earlier price.
People who exceed the 10-minute drop-off time limit will face a penalty of up to £60. The airport also stated that vehicles must not be left unattended and that payment must be made on exit.
Belfast International Airport encourages people with blue badges to use the Short Stay car park, which is free for 30 minutes. Travellers can also use the Long Stay car park, which is free for 15 minutes.
Reason for Belfast International Airport’s decision
The airport released a statement regarding the surge in drop-off charges. It is mentioned that the rising cost pressure that many businesses are facing across Northern Ireland is the major reason for the increase in drop-off prices.
The airport added:
“We remain committed to transforming the airport and are progressing with our £100m investment programme that has already delivered a new terminal extension, security hall and enhanced duty-free experience.”
Belfast International Airport is not the first or only airport to increase drop-off charges.
Belfast City Airport increased the charge to £4, and Gatwick Airport increased the drop-off charges to £10 from £7 in the Short Stay Car Parks. Both airports, like Belfast International, continue to provide free drop-off options within the Long Stay Car Parks.
Passengers are advised to confirm charges directly with the airports they are visiting.
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