Edinburgh Airport Raises Terminal Drop-off Fee to £8.50 from Monday
Drivers dropping off or picking up passengers at Edinburgh Airport will pay £2.50 more from 18 May.
The airport confirmed the new charge of £8.50 for up to 10 minutes in the terminal zone starts on Monday 18 May. The previous rate was £6. Each extra minute will cost £1.
The 50% discount for electric vehicles ends at the same time.
What’s changing The increase applies only to the dedicated drop-off and pick-up zone directly outside the terminal building. This is the area most drivers use for quick stops.
Airport bosses said the rise was unavoidable after business rates on the terminal jumped 142%, adding around £8 million to annual costs.
What stays free or cheaper A free 30-minute drop-off and pick-up area remains in the long-stay car park. Extra spaces have been added there, and the free shuttle bus to the terminal will resume.
Drivers who prefer to avoid the charge can use this option or park further away and walk or take the shuttle.
Why it matters for locals and visitors Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest. Many people drive to drop off family, friends or business travellers, especially for early flights or late arrivals.
The change makes the terminal zone one of the most expensive short-stay options at UK airports outside London. Most drivers will notice the difference on a standard 10-minute stop.
Key details at a glance
| Detail | From 18 May 2026 | Before |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal drop-off/pick-up (up to 10 min) | £8.50 | £6 |
| Each extra minute | £1 | £1 |
| Electric vehicle discount | None | 50% off |
| Free 30-min zone (long-stay) | Still free + more spaces | Free |
| Free shuttle bus | Resuming | Previously paused |
Alternatives if you want to avoid the charge
- Use the free long-stay drop-off zone and take the shuttle.
- Park in one of the further car parks and walk (10–15 minutes depending on terminal).
- Take public transport: the tram from the city centre or Newhaven, Lothian Buses, or the Airlink coach.
- For pick-ups, agree a meeting point in the long-stay area or use the terminal meet-and-greet services if available.
The airport has not announced any further increases at this stage.
Our take The £2.50 jump is noticeable, especially for frequent travellers or families. Most people will probably switch to the free long-stay option or public transport for routine drop-offs. The free shuttle and extra spaces should ease the impact for those who still drive.
For the latest parking prices and shuttle times, check the airport website before you travel.