Dropping someone at Stansted Airport should be simple, but the airport has different drop-off zones, time limits, and charges that many people find confusing.
To help you understand everything clearly, this guide explains the Stansted Airport Drop Off Charge in easy words, with updated information for 2026.
Whether you are a driver, a traveller, or someone booking a minicab, this guide will help you avoid extra fees and make your airport trip stress-free.
Stansted Airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK, and because so many cars arrive at the same time, the airport uses drop-off charges to manage traffic and ensure safety.
Knowing these charges before you arrive will save you time and money. Let’s look at all the options, prices, and rules so you can choose the best drop-off area.
What Is the Drop-Off Charge at Stansted Airport?
The drop-off charge is a fee you pay when stopping your car near the airport terminal to let passengers get out. This fee applies only in certain zones.
The closest area to the terminal is the most expensive, while other zones provide cheaper or free options.
The main aim of the charge is to prevent overcrowding at the terminal entrance and keep the area flowing smoothly. Many UK airports use similar systems to control traffic and improve safety.
Express Set Down Zone – Closest but Most Expensive
The Express Set Down Zone is the main place where people drop off passengers. It is located right outside the terminal building, so it is the fastest and easiest drop-off point. You can stop your car, unload bags, and the passenger can enter the terminal within seconds. Because it is so convenient, the airport charges a higher fee.
Charges for the Express Set Down Zone
- £7 for up to 15 minutes
- £25 for 15–30 minutes
- £20 re-entry fee if you come back within 30 minutes
- Maximum allowed time: 30 minutes
These charges apply to all drivers, including taxis, minicabs, private hire cars, and personal vehicles.
How the Payment System Works
Stansted uses ANPR cameras (Automatic Number Plate Recognition). When you enter the Express Set Down zone, your number plate is recorded. There are no barriers, no tickets, and no pay machines.
You must pay online by midnight the next day using the airport’s payment portal. If you forget, you may receive a parking fine.
Why Are the Express Set Down Charges High?
Many people ask why a quick 5-minute stop costs £7. The main reasons are:
- To control traffic flow
- To prevent long parking near the terminal
- To keep drop-off quick and efficient
- To reduce pollution from slow-moving vehicles
- To support airport road maintenance
The high fee also encourages drivers to use alternative drop-off points, especially the free option available at Mid Stay Car Park.
Short Stay Car Parks – Good for Longer Goodbyes
If you want to walk inside the terminal, help with heavy luggage, or stay a little longer with your passenger, the Short Stay Car Parks are a better choice. These car parks are close to the terminal, just a few minutes’ walk.
Short Stay Car Park Charges
- £10 for up to 30 minutes
- £18 for up to 1 hour
- £22 for up to 2 hours
- £35 for up to 4 hours
These car parks are a good choice for families, elderly passengers, or anyone who needs more time. They are more expensive than normal parking, but cheaper than overstaying in the Express Set Down zone.
Mid Stay Car Park – Best Free Drop-Off Option
The stansted Mid Stay Car Park is the airport’s best free option for dropping off passengers. It gives you 1 hour free parking, and a free shuttle bus takes passengers to the terminal.
Why Choose This Option?
- Free for 60 minutes
- Free shuttle bus runs every 5–10 minutes
- Shuttle takes about 7–10 minutes to reach the terminal
- No rush, no time stress
- Great for families, long goodbyes, or helping with luggage
If you are looking to save money, this is the smartest choice. Many drivers prefer this option because it is simple, free, and convenient.
How the Shuttle Service Works
The shuttle service from the Mid Stay Car Park is smooth and reliable. Buses pick up passengers from clearly marked stops.
They arrive frequently, and the journey to the airport is quick. The buses are clean, spacious, and have space for luggage.
If you are not in a hurry, this free option is the best way to avoid the drop-off charges completely.
What Happens if You Don’t Pay the Drop-Off Charge?
If you fail to pay the Express Set Down charge, the airport will issue a Parking Charge Notice (PCN), similar to a fine.
What You Should Know:
- The fine is usually £80 to £100
- You may get a discount if you pay early
- It will be sent to the address registered with your vehicle
- The airport does not accept excuses like “I forgot”
- Only payment clears the fine
To avoid this, pay online immediately after you leave the airport.
Avoiding Extra Fees – Tips for Drivers
Here are some easy tips to help you save money and avoid penalties:
1. Prepare Before You Arrive
Ask the passenger to have their bags ready so you do not stay too long.
2. Use the Free Option
If you want to avoid charges, drop off at the Mid Stay Car Park.
3. Avoid Re-Entering
If you return within 30 minutes, you will be charged a £20 re-entry fee.
4. Pay Right After Leaving
This prevents you from forgetting later. Paying online takes less than two minutes.
5. Consider Using a Minicab
Professional drivers know the drop-off rules well. Companies like Minicabs.co.uk offer smooth and stress-free airport transfers.
Support for Disabled Passengers
Stansted Airport is designed to help disabled passengers or those with reduced mobility.
Key Support Points
- You can drop off disabled passengers in the Express Set Down zone
- Airport assistance teams are available
- Help points are clearly marked near the drop-off area
- Wheelchair assistance can be booked in advance
If you plan to drop off someone who needs extra help, arrive early and request assistance in advance when possible.
Picking Up Passengers at Stansted Airport
Picking up is not allowed in the Express Set Down zone. If you try to pick someone up there, you may be charged or fined.
Where to Pick Up Passengers
- Short Stay Car Parks
- Mid Stay Car Park (free for one hour)
The Short Stay area is the most popular choice for pickups because it is closer to the terminal, but the Mid Stay free option is perfect if you want to save money.
Using a Minicab or Taxi for Airport Drop-Off
If you prefer not to drive yourself, you can book a minicab to Stansted. Minicab drivers are familiar with airport rules and help you reach the terminal smoothly. They manage the drop-off time well and avoid extra charges.
Professional services such as Minicabs.co.uk ensure:
- On-time pickup
- Clear communication
- Help with luggage
- Smooth drop-off near the terminal
Why Does Stansted Charge for Drop-Offs?
Many airports in the UK now charge for drop-offs. Stansted’s main reasons are:
- Reduce congestion near the terminal
- Improve safety for pedestrians
- Keep traffic moving quickly
- Limit unnecessary parking
- Support road management and airport operations
While the fee may seem frustrating, it helps create a smoother, safer environment for travelers.
Will Charges Increase in the Future?
Airport charges can change, but for 2026, the same drop-off prices are expected. Any changes are usually announced on the Stansted Airport website. It is a good habit to check before travelling, especially on busy holidays or summer weekends.
Conclusion
The Stansted Airport Drop-Off Charge is easy to understand once you know the different zones, prices, and rules. The Express Set Down zone is the nearest option but comes with a cost. The Mid Stay Car Park offers a free, convenient choice with a shuttle bus to the terminal.
If you want a fast drop-off, be ready before arriving and avoid staying longer than 15 minutes. If you want to save money, use the free Mid Stay Car Park. Always remember to pay online if you use the Express Set Down area.
With the information in this 1400-word guide, you can now make the best choice for your journey and avoid any extra fees or fines.
FAQs Stansted Airport Drop-Off Charge
1. How much is the drop-off charge at Stansted Airport?
The Express Set Down zone costs £7 for up to 15 minutes and £25 for up to 30 minutes. There is also a £20 re-entry fee if you return within 30 minutes.
2. Is there a free drop-off area at Stansted?
Yes. The Mid Stay Car Park offers 1 hour free for drop-off and pick-up. It includes a fast and comfortable shuttle bus to the airport terminal.
3. How do I pay the drop-off charge?
You must pay online through the airport website. ANPR cameras record your number plate, and payment must be made by midnight the next day.
4. Can I pick up passengers from the drop-off zone?
No. Pick-ups are not allowed in the Express Set Down zone. You must use the Short Stay Car Park or the Mid Stay Car Park.
5. What happens if I don’t pay the drop-off fee?
You will receive a Parking Charge Notice (PCN), usually between £80 and £100. Paying early often reduces the fine, but it’s best to avoid this by paying on time.
