Comment by 0x3f
9 hours ago
Right, but what do you think the alternative is? There is limited space close to the entrance of the terminal, it has to be rationed somehow. Also what happens in practice is people take advantage. A trust-based 30s wouldn't work. Even with the current fees you can hang around Heathrow drop off and see the police having to move people along, check unatended cars, etc.
There's limited space everywhere. It is rationed by people not wanting to be there. There's limited space at the baggage claim but nobody is charging you to be at the baggage claim.
You think people don't want to drop off at the airport? There's literally a multi storey full of short term parking at every Heathrow terminal. They wouldn't fit in the drop off area at all.
You are charged to be at the baggage claim. The airline pays it on your behalf, from your fare.
you are not charged to be at the baggage claim
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> nobody is charging you to be at the baggage claim
Not yet.
The alternative is not charging. JFK somehow manages. Yes there's traffic, but it keeps slowly moving.
JFK is pure hell compared to Heathrow, never mind to an actually well-run airport. I'll stick to paying for my externalities.
I have three major airports in reasonable driving distance. None of them charge money to pick up or drop off at the terminal. It works fine.
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