Gatwick Airport has rolled out a new coach parking and drop-off system designed to streamline access for operators and improve co-ordination.
Under the new arrangements, coach operators can now pre-book permits via the Gatwick website, or on arrival. The change is aimed at simplifying planning and easing congestion around the North and South Terminals. The system allows for same-day amendments and cancellations and supports Autopay for both coach parking and forecourt drop-offs.
Each permit issued under the new system covers a single vehicle for one calendar day, allowing multiple drop-offs and pick-ups within that period. Operators deploying more than one vehicle must book individual permits for each.
Gatwick has confirmed that operators using Autopay can manage multiple vehicles from a single account. Although the sign-up process initially allows for only one registration, further vehicles can be added later via the user dashboard. The airport says that process is already in use by several fleet operators.
Operators are urged to migrate to the new digital system as continued reliance on paper-based permits could lead to unintended charges. Vehicles operating under paper permits will not be recognised by the new system and may automatically trigger Autopay fees when accessing the terminal forecourts. The legacy paper process will be permanently withdrawn at the end of July, after which only online bookings will be accepted.
Drivers are still required to report to the Coach Park office on arrival, where staff will give clearance for release to the forecourt pick-up zones.
The development comes after a successful soft launch in partnership with several coach companies and has been welcomed by the UK Coach Operators Association (UKCOA), which has helped shape the new system through engagement with airport officials.
Comments Stephen Spendley, Director of Operations at UKCOA: “Weā€™re pleased to see these long-awaited changes introduced, and we thank members who took part in the soft launch. Their feedback helped resolve some early issues, and the system is already proving valuable. Weā€™ve worked closely with Gatwick to address a few points of confusion raised by members and are pleased to share further guidance.
“This is a positive development that will help streamline coach operations at Gatwick. Weā€™ll continue working with members and the airport to ensure the new arrangements are working well in practice.”
More information about the new arrangements, including detailed fees, is available on Gatwick Airport’s website.
