Cardiff Airport will be implementing new charges for pick-up and drop-off services starting October 1. The new system will include a minimum charge of £3 for drop-offs and pick-ups. Passengers, visitors, staff, and partners using the airport’s pick-up and drop-off areas will be charged £3 for the first 10 minutes. After the initial 10 minutes, additional fees of £3 will apply for each subsequent 10-minute period.
Previously, the airport allowed free drop-offs for up to five minutes, followed by a £3 charge for every five minutes thereafter. Changes to pick-up charges will also be introduced, with a fee of £3 for the first 10 minutes and £4 for the first 20 minutes. Currently, pick-ups are charged at £1 for up to 10 minutes, £2 for 10 to 20 minutes, £5 for up to an hour, £15 for up to two hours, and £50 for a full 24 hours. In addition to the new charges, the airport will be renaming its existing car parks for easier customer navigation.
Under the new names, the Short Stay car park will become Car Park 1, the Long Stay will be known as Car Park 2, and the Meet & Greet service will be rebranded as Express Park. Cardiff Airport aims to streamline its parking facilities and services for the convenience of travellers. Despite some dissatisfaction expressed by passengers, highlighting concerns over the charges and changes in car park names, the airport assures that the tariffs remain competitive compared to other UK airports.
Some Facebook commenters voiced their disappointment with the new charges, questioning the rationale behind the pricing adjustments. However, others noted that the rates at Cardiff Airport were still favourable compared to those at other airports. The airport also clarified that a free 20-minute drop-off and pick-up option will still be available at Car Park 2 (formerly Long-Stay), which operates round the clock and is located a short distance from the terminal. Cardiff Airport’s efforts to update its parking facilities aim to enhance customer experience and efficiency for those using the airport’s services.