Forecourt Fees at Stansted airport
Stansted Airport Drop-Off and Pick-Up Charges 2026: What You Need to Know
If you're travelling to or from London Stansted Airport, it's important to understand the latest drop-off and pick-up charges before setting off. Airport forecourt fees have continued to rise across the UK, and Stansted is now among the most expensive airports in the country for passengers being dropped off directly outside the terminal.
Whether you're travelling with family, dropping off friends, or arranging an airport transfer, knowing the available options can help you avoid unexpected costs.
Express Set Down: The Closest Option
The Express Set Down area is located immediately outside the terminal and offers the quickest route for passengers heading to departures.
If you are travelling with I Love Meet and Greet at Stansted Airport, you should follow signs for the Express Set Down area when arriving at the terminal.
This is the designated handover point used by our fully insured, uniformed drivers and allows us to provide the fast, convenient service that our customers expect. Located immediately outside the terminal, Express Set Down enables you to unload your luggage, complete the vehicle handover and proceed directly to check-in within minutes.
Your parking will then be delivered by a Which recommended airport parking operator for two consecutive years (2024 and 2025), allowing you to start your holiday in comfort.
Why Do I Have to Pay the Express Set Down Charge?
The Express Set Down charge is an airport fee charged by Stansted Airport, not by I Love Meet and Greet.
As of 2026, Stansted Airport charges:
Up to 15 minutes: £10
Over 15 minutes: £28
The fee applies to all vehicles using the Express Set Down facility, including private cars, taxis, chauffeurs and meet and greet customers.
Because the handover takes place in the airport's designated forecourt area, the airport charge remains payable regardless of which parking company you choose.
The maximum stay is 30 minutes.
Unlike traditional airport drop-off zones, Stansted's Express Set Down area is now barrier-free. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras record vehicle registrations, and payment must be made online, by telephone, or through an AutoPay account by midnight on the day after travel.
Failure to pay on time can result in a Parking Charge Notice of £100, reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.
Is the Express Set Down Fee Worth It?
For many travellers, the answer is yes.
The convenience of arriving directly outside the terminal, handing over your keys to a professional driver and walking straight to check-in is particularly valuable for:
Families travelling with children.
Elderly passengers.
Business travellers.
Passengers with reduced mobility.
Anyone travelling with multiple bags or bulky luggage.