How Much is the PCN for Gatwick Drop-Off?

If you’ve recently received a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) after dropping off someone at Gatwick Airport, you’re not alone. With strict parking and drop-off rules in place, it’s easy to make a mistake and face a fine. Here’s everything you need to know about the Gatwick Airport drop-off PCN, how much it costs, and how to avoid it.

What is a PCN at Gatwick Airport?

A Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) is a fine issued to drivers who breach parking or traffic regulations at Gatwick, including failing to pay the drop-off charge or stopping in prohibited areas. Gatwick has specific rules for dropping off passengers, and non-compliance can lead to a fine.

How Much is the PCN for Gatwick Drop-Off?

If you don’t follow the correct procedures for dropping off passengers at Gatwick Airport, you could face a fine. The current PCN for violating drop-off rules at Gatwick Airport is £100. However, if you pay the fine within 14 days, it’s usually reduced to £60.

It’s important to address the PCN promptly to avoid additional charges, as the penalty will increase if it is not paid within a set period.

When Can You Get a PCN for Drop-Off at Gatwick?

There are several reasons you might receive a PCN at Gatwick Airport:

Failure to Pay the Drop-Off Charge
Gatwick Airport charges a fee for using the designated drop-off zones located at the North and South terminals. If you do not pay this charge, you risk receiving a PCN. The current fee is £5 for up to 10 minutes. After this time, additional charges apply, and failing to pay could lead to a penalty.
Stopping in Prohibited Areas
Stopping anywhere other than the designated drop-off zones can result in a fine. This includes stopping on approach roads, bus lanes, or areas marked as no stopping zones. Cameras monitor these areas, and fines are issued automatically if you stop where you shouldn't.
Parking or Waiting in Drop-Off Zones
The drop-off zones are strictly for dropping off passengers and are not intended for parking or waiting. If you're caught parking or idling in these zones for an extended period, you could receive a PCN.

How to Pay the Drop-Off Charge

To avoid a PCN, make sure to pay the Gatwick drop-off charge promptly. Here’s how you can pay:

Online: Visit the official Gatwick website to pay the charge. You can pay up to 24 hours before arriving or by midnight the day after the drop-off.
By Phone: There is a telephone payment option available. Simply call the number provided by Gatwick and follow the instructions to pay.

If you forget to pay the drop-off charge, Gatwick provides a small window of time (by midnight the day after) to settle the fee before issuing a PCN.

How to Avoid a PCN at Gatwick Drop-Off

Here are some tips to help you avoid getting fined when dropping off passengers at Gatwick:

Pay the Drop-Off Fee
Make sure you pay the drop-off fee on time. Set a reminder if necessary, and make use of the online or phone payment options.
Use the Correct Drop-Off Zone
Always drop off passengers in the designated drop-off areas at either the North or South terminal. Avoid stopping anywhere else, even for a quick drop-off.
Do Not Wait or Park
Drop off your passengers quickly and leave the zone. The area is for drop-offs only, and waiting or parking can lead to a fine.
Consider Free Parking Alternatives
If you don’t want to pay the drop-off charge, you can use the free drop-off option in the Long Stay car parks. Shuttle buses run between the car parks and the terminals, making it a convenient option if you’re not in a rush.

What to Do if You Receive a PCN

If you receive a PCN, you can either pay the fine or challenge it if you believe it was issued in error. To pay, follow the instructions on the notice, and remember to pay within 14 days to get the discounted rate. If you want to challenge the PCN, you’ll need to provide evidence that supports your case.

Conclusion

The PCN for failing to comply with Gatwick drop-off rules is £100, with a reduced rate of £60 if paid within 14 days. To avoid receiving a fine, ensure you pay the drop-off charge, use the designated areas, and avoid waiting or parking in restricted zones. By following these rules, you can avoid the hassle and expense of a PCN, making your airport experience smoother and stress-free.