The government announced on Tuesday that it will review charges levied on drivers who stop at airport forecourts to drop off passengers, following reports of a sharp rise in such fees at a number of UK airports. Ministers said the review was necessary to assess the impact of higher kerbside charges on travellers.
"It is vital to ensure travel remains accessible and that passengers are treated fairly," a government statement said, confirming the decision to examine the issue. The announcement gave no immediate timetable for the review or details on the scope of the investigation.
Drop-off fees have become a flashpoint for some travellers and local authorities in recent months as airports and transport operators have altered arrangements for managing vehicles at terminals. The government said the purpose of the review is to consider whether recent changes have had unintended consequences for passengers.
Further information on how the review will be conducted and what measures, if any, may follow was not provided. The government did not specify which airports would be the focus of the assessment or whether it would involve consultation with airport operators, local councils or consumer groups.
Ministers are expected to set out more details in due course as the review gets underway. Stakeholders and passengers awaiting clarity will be watching for any recommendations that could affect pricing and access at airport drop-off points across the UK.