If you’re planning to drop off or pick up passengers at London Stansted Airport, knowing the rules is essential. Charges apply in different zones, and failing to pay correctly can lead to steep fines.
This guide breaks down Stansted’s official drop-off charges for 2025, explains pick-up rules, highlights free options, and shows how a pre-booked Stansted transfer can save time, money, and stress.
Drop-Off Charges & Zones at Stansted
Stansted has three main options for dropping off passengers:
Express Set Down Zone (closest to terminal)
- £7 for up to 15 minutes
- £25 if you stay longer than 15 minutes
- £20 surcharge if you return within 30 minutes
- £100 fines apply for stopping outside marked areas
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option.
Short Stay Car Park (better for longer drop-offs)
- £10 for up to 30 minutes
- £18 for up to 1 hour
- £22 for up to 2 hours
Ideal if you want to accompany passengers inside the terminal.
Mid Stay Car Park (best value option)
- Free for up to 1 hour
- £5 for the next hour
- Free shuttle buses to the terminal every 5–7 minutes
This is the only free way to drop off passengers at Stansted.
??Payment is cashless only — card or contactless required.
Pick-Up Rules and Areas
Unlike drop-offs, pick-ups are not allowed at the Express Set Down Zone. You must use official car parks:
- Short Stay Orange Zone: Closest option for private cars and ride-hailing pick-ups. Fees start at £10 for 30 minutes.
- Mid Stay Car Park: Free for the first hour, then £5 for the next. Includes shuttle service to terminals.
?? Picking up outside designated areas can result in fines of £50 or more.
Accessibility and Exceptions
- Blue Badge Holders: Eligible for extra time in Express Set Down but must notify a traffic marshal and show the badge.
- Exemptions: Only operational, emergency, or military vehicles are exempt from charges.
Useful Tips for Avoiding Extra Costs
- Keep your stop under 15 minutes in Express Set Down to avoid £25 charges.
- If you expect delays, use Mid Stay — the first hour is free.
- Pay within 24 hours to avoid penalty notices.
- For longer farewells, use Short Stay or Mid Stay instead of risking a fine.
Stansted Drop-Off & Pick-Up Charges (2025)
Car Park | Duration | Charge [£] | Notes |
Express Set Down | Up to 15 min | 7 | Closest to terminal |
| Over 15 min | 25 | Charges jump steeply |
| Return <30 min | +20 extra | Penalty applies |
Short Stay | Up to 30 min | 10 | Best for longer farewells |
| Up to 1 hour | 18 |
|
| Up to 2 hours | 22 |
|
Mid Stay | Up to 1 hour | Free | Shuttle to terminal included |
| Next hour | 5 | Affordable option |
Why a Pre-Booked Transfer is Smarter
With a WKG Stansted Transfer, you can skip the stress of charges, shuttles, and fines:
- Fixed-rate pricing with no airport surcharges.
- Driver meets you inside arrivals.
- Flight tracking ensures no waiting fees.
- Eco-friendly electric vehicles available.
??Book Your Stansted Transfer Today
FAQs
How much does it cost to drop off at Stansted in 2025?
It costs £7 for up to 15 minutes in Express Set Down. Stays over 15 minutes rise to £25.
Is there a free drop-off option at Stansted?
Yes. The Mid Stay Car Park allows 1 hour of free parking, with shuttle buses to the terminal.
Where can I pick someone up at Stansted?
You can only pick up in the Short Stay (fees apply) or Mid Stay (first hour free) car parks. Pick-up is not allowed at Express Set Down.
What happens if I stop outside official zones?
Automatic cameras monitor vehicles. Fines of £50–£100 apply for stopping outside designated areas.
Conclusion
Stansted Airport has some of the strictest rules on drop-offs and pick-ups in London. Express Set Down is convenient but costly, Short Stay is better for longer goodbyes, and Mid Stay offers the only free option.
For the simplest journey, book a WKG Stansted Transfer. With fixed pricing, meet-and-greet service, and no hidden fees, it’s the most stress-free way to travel.