Scotland's airports cashing in this summer with 'outrageous' drop-off charges
Scotland's biggest airports are cashing in this summer by charging holidaymakers 'outrageous' drop-off parking charges despite already raking in millions of pounds.
Experts have said pick-up and drop-off fees at terminals, branded the 'kiss and fly tax', are a relatively recent phenomenon and are 'an easy cash grab' for airports.
Both Edinburgh and Glasgow airports have already raised drop-off charges this year.
Now motorists who use a short-stay zone to drop off or collect loved ones at Edinburgh face having to fork out £6 for just ten minutes while those stopping at Glasgow have 15 minutes.
The price hikes come despite the latest available accounts for Glasgow Airport, which is owned by AGS, showing it made a profit after tax of more than £4.6m.
Meanwhile Edinburgh, which is jointly owned by VINCI Airports and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) raked in more than £88.2m.
Edinburgh-based consumer and motoring disputes expert Scott Dixon said the fees had become a 'lucrative cash cow for airports '.
He said: 'Forcing motorists to pay up to £6 to pick up or drop off family and friends is outrageous, especially as the fees seem to rise yearly with no genuine justification.
'It hits families the hardest, particularly in peak summer holiday season, where using public transport isn't a viable option.
'The fees are generally added to taxi fares, so there's no easy way to avoid it.'
Dixon, who runs the Complaints Resolver website, added: 'Airports claim it's about managing congestion and investing in sustainable transport options, but in reality, it's an easy cash grab that punishes drivers for doing what they did for free until a few years ago.'
Airports began phasing in the charges after the Glasgow Airport terrorist attack in 2007 forced a rethink of drop-off arrangements.
At Edinburgh, Scotland's largest airport, a £1 drop-off fee was introduced in 2010. But in January the charge had soared to £6 for the first ten minutes and £1-per-minute after that.
In Glasgow, it's £6 for the first 15 minutes and £1-a-minute after. It marks the third year running the airport has raised the cost.
The cost to park at the airport's short-stay fee is £8 for 20 minutes, which is 50 pence higher than London Heathrow.
Aberdeen Airport, also run by AGS, has so far kept drop-off fees at £5.50 for the first 15 minutes after raising it in 2024.
However, in April it hiked rates in its short-stay car parks to £7 for the first 20 minutes.
The RAC's Rod Dennis said: 'A further hike in the cost of drop-off parking at Scottish airports will be frustrating to anyone giving a lift to family and friends.'
Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.
You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.
All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in!
If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like.
To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen airports said they offered free pick-up and drop-off areas further away from their main terminals.
Edinburgh Airport is also linked to the capital's tramline. A spokesman said: 'We do increase costs when required to allow us to remain competitive… and encourage people to make more sustainable choices, with 42 per cent of our passengers now using public transport.'
Glasgow Airport said: 'All of the income generated by the charge is reinvested into the airport.'
Aberdeen International Airport said the increase in its short-stay charge followed a review of parking facilities, adding: 'There are no changes to our free drop-off facility… in our long-stay car park.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Edinburgh Reporter
31 minutes ago
- Edinburgh Reporter
Director of Mischief appointed at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh has created a new role, adding the first ever 'Director of Mischief' position to its team. Get ready for an unforgettable summer, because Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is about to make family holidays more memorable than ever! The team are on the hunt for their very own 'Director of Mischief' – a local child who knows Edinburgh inside out and is eager to share their top tips for fun with families exploring the vibrant city. Situated right in the heart of the Capital, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is the perfect base for family adventures. With top family tourist attractions, like Edinburgh Castle and Camera Obscura just a stone's throw away, it's the must-choose destination for a luxury stay that parents love and kids will never forget. The 'Director of Mischief' will join the team as the ultimate fun ambassador, providing real and trusted recommendations to even the youngest guests. The chosen child will not only boast the coolest title in town but will also get to share their favourite summer spots and activities with visiting families. Working with the team to curate a series of kid-friendly travel guides, from the best things to do on a rainy day to hidden local gems and even Harry Potter-themed adventures. Mafalda Albuquerque, General Manager at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: 'With the Scottish summer holidays kicking off, there's no better time to launch this initiative. Families and kids will be planning their holiday itineraries, and we want to inspire them with exciting activities and adventures to keep the fun rolling all summer long. 'From the best places to play, the yummiest spots for treats, and the most thrilling adventures – we want our Director to ensure every child's experience in Edinburgh is absolutely unforgettable! 'Are you a young Edinburgh explorer with a knack for fun? Do you have a great sense of adventure and love discovering new places? Then we need YOU.' In collaboration with Museum Context, the successful applicant will receive a magical prize package, including: Complimentary Access to Top Edinburgh Attractions: Free entry to five of the city's most exciting, family-friendly destinations – from animal encounters and castle expeditions to immersive museum experiences Free entry to five of the city's most exciting, family-friendly destinations – from animal encounters and castle expeditions to immersive museum experiences Luxury Family Stay at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh: An overnight stay in the hotel's Family King Suite, featuring bunk beds and a minibar filled with sweet treats and kid-friendly surprises An overnight stay in the hotel's Family King Suite, featuring bunk beds and a minibar filled with sweet treats and kid-friendly surprises Exclusive Backstage Access at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh: A behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel, including a meet-and-greet with the team and the hotel's beloved dog and Director of Waggy Welcomes, Bonnar. The winner will also take part in creating engaging family-focused content for future guests A behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel, including a meet-and-greet with the team and the hotel's beloved dog and Director of Waggy Welcomes, Bonnar. The winner will also take part in creating engaging family-focused content for future guests Private After-Hours Visit to Museum Context: A VIP experience inside one of Edinburgh's most enchanting locations. The winner will explore a treasure trove of magical items and will be invited to select a special keepsake – perhaps a wand, cloak, or mystical companion – to take home A VIP experience inside one of Edinburgh's most enchanting locations. The winner will explore a treasure trove of magical items and will be invited to select a special keepsake – perhaps a wand, cloak, or mystical companion – to take home The Official Title of 'Director of Mischief': With the role comes recognition, responsibility (of the fun variety), and memories to last a lifetime . Parents and guardians, don't miss out on this unique opportunity! Applications are now open for children who would like to be considered as the first Director of Mischief. To apply, simply film a video of your child sharing their favourite places to visit in and around Edinburgh. For more information and to submit your application, please visit: Applications must be submitted by Sunday 31st August, with the lucky winner revealed on Monday 22nd September. Instagram and Facebook . Follow along with Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's family-friendly events all summer long on social media here:and Like this: Like Related
The National
33 minutes ago
- The National
Scotland's food and drink industry is seriously at risk
This isn't a crisis unfolding in some faraway land with impacts on the likes of cocoa or olive oil. It's here now, and it's already threatening Scotland's national larder. From waterlogged fields and failed harvests to disrupted supply chains and rising costs, climate change is no longer just a background concern but one of the biggest risks to food security we face as a nation. Scotland's food and drink industry is one of our greatest national assets. Renowned for its quality, provenance and people, it sustains livelihoods, supports rural communities, and forms a vital part of our economy and identity. READ MORE: Police to breathalyse passengers arriving at Scottish airport in pilot scheme But the climate crisis is putting all of this at risk. This is not just an environmental emergency, it is also an economic and social one. Take potatoes: a Scottish staple and global export. But popular varieties such as Ayrshire and Maris Piper are now at risk. Research by the James Hutton Institute indicates that when temperatures exceed 25C, potato plants stop growing and start fighting for survival – a change that slashes yield and quality. By 2030, we could see up to 60 days of 'heat stress' per growing season, an existential threat to a crop that underpins jobs, exports, and diets across the country. Barley – the beating heart of our whisky industry – is facing a similar fight. The 2018 heatwave caused a 7.9% drop in UK spring barley production, hitting growers and also hammering distillers with higher prices and reduced supply. As drought risk increases, so does the chance we'll start to see changes in the flavour, consistency, and availability of our national drink. Livestock farming, too, is feeling the pressure. In hotter weather, cattle and sheep face increased heat stress, reduced fertility, and lower feed intake – all of which affect growth rates and animal welfare. Farmers are having to adapt animal husbandry practices to protect stock from prolonged exposure to extreme conditions, adding yet more strain to already thin margins. These examples are not one-offs, but early warning signs. From cancelled harvests to delayed deliveries, rising costs and shrinking margins, producers are feeling the impacts of climate change. Supply chain resilience is being tested and those who operate on the finest of margins are close to breaking point. To protect Scotland's food future, we must act now. The transition to net zero is often framed as something businesses 'have to do' that costs an arm and a leg. The reality is that it's one of the most important investments we can make in the future strength and resilience of Scotland's food sector. By cutting emissions, businesses are often also cutting costs. Whether it's regenerative farming, switching to renewable energy, or simply recycling more, practical steps exist today to build both resilience and competitiveness. The longer we delay, the fewer options we will have. The good news is, as with all universal issues, no-one has to do this alone. Through the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership's Net Zero Commitment, we're working closely with government, industry bodies and the wider supply chain to provide the tools, guidance and support businesses need. That means making grant schemes easier to find, requesting extended funding windows, offering application support, and investing in infrastructure and practical business advice. We must ensure that every grower – large or small – can access the tools they need to thrive in a changing climate. And above all, it means recognition from retailers, policy-makers and the public that backing Scottish produce isn't just about national pride. It's an investment in our food security, our rural economy and our net zero future. If we want to keep Scotland's shelves stocked with Scottish food – and if we want our farmers to be part of the climate solution rather than casualties of it – the time to act is now. Let's use this summer's heat as a turning point, not a warning unheeded. Simon McKeating is programme manager at the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership's Net Zero Commitment
Scottish Sun
2 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Holidaymakers arriving BACK at Scots airport face strict new police checks coming through passport control
It could be rolled out elsewhere TRAVELLER'S CHECKS Holidaymakers arriving BACK at Scots airport face strict new police checks coming through passport control Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SCOTTISH holidaymakers are facing tougher checks coming through passport control as cops launch a fresh crackdown. A new operation has been launched by cops during the summer holiday season. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 A new operation has been launched by cops targeting drivers who arrive back in the country Credit: Getty 4 Police Scotland's border policing and traffic units have teamed up for the trial operation Credit: Police Scotland 4 Police hope the scheme could stop dangerous drivers getting on the roads Credit: PA:Press Association Police Scotland announced they were launching Operation Safe Landing to catch lawbreakers at airports. The scheme aims to stop drink or drug drivers getting on the roads when they return from holidays. Holidaymakers often take a drink on the plane on their way back, but even one bevvy can put them over Scotland's strict drink driving limit. Anyone who took drugs on holiday might still have them in their system when they return and get in their car. Plane passengers could also be suffering from "travel fatigue" after a long flight, especially with jet-lag and any delays along the way and make it more likely for them to have a crash and potentially kill others. The fear has seen the national force's Border Policing and traffic units team up to stop potentially dangerous drivers getting on the roads after a trip abroad. Border Policing Inspector Kelly Manson said: "We understand that for many, a drink on a flight can be part of the holiday experience. "However, the legal drink-drive limit in Scotland is strict, and the effects of alcohol, coupled with potential travel fatigue, can significantly impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. 'Operation Safe Landing is about ensuring everyone arriving at the airport gets home safely, without putting themselves or others at risk. "This pilot project will be evaluated with a view to rolling it out to other areas." Tragedy as body of boy, 15, pulled from Glasgow river after major police operation The trial scheme is being rolled out at Aberdeen Airport. It will involve a larger police presence at the airport, who will carry out checks on vehicles. They will also speak with passengers and even do booze and drug tests on drivers. Cops say the scheme has the potential to save lives on the roads and could be rolled out to other airports if it is a success. Road Policing Inspector Steve Manson added: "We are committed to prioritising road safety and our officers are out every day educating road users and carrying out enforcement. 'If you choose to drink alcohol on your flight, please make safe arrangements for your journey from the airport. 'Drink driving kills and seriously injures people. The decision can be life changing for you and the people around you. 'We're asking everyone to take responsibility and help us save lives.' Scotland's drink driving laws SCOTLAND has a zero tolerance approach to drink driving. The legal limit of alcohol in the body is so low that even ONE drink can put a person over it. The current limit is: 22 microgrammes (mcg) of alcohol in 100 ml of breath 50 milligrammes (mg) of alcohol in 100ml of blood 67 milligrammes (mg) in 100 ml of urine The penalties for drink-driving in Scotland include a minimum 12-month driving ban, a fine of up to £5,000, a criminal record and in some cases, a prison sentence. Scotland has some of the toughest drink driving laws, with a zero tolerance approach. Police Scotland nailed 8,568 drivers for being on the roads while drunk or on drugs in the past year. This has seen Operation Safe Landing welcomed by airport bosses. Robert Paterson, Head of Operations at Aberdeen International Airport, said: "We welcome the introduction of Operation Safe Landing by Police Scotland. 'Passenger safety is always a key focus for us, and this initiative supports that goal by encouraging responsible behaviour when travelling. 'We understand that holidays are a time to relax, but it's important that everyone considers how they'll get home safely. 'We're pleased to work alongside Police Scotland to help raise awareness and ensure Aberdeen International Airport remains a safe and supportive environment for all travellers."
