New barrier-free system for drivers using Stansted Airport’s Express Set Down area to go live January 22

Stansted Airport’s new barrier-free system for motorists dropping off passengers at its Express Set Down (ESD) area at the terminal will come into operation from Wednesday.

It uses automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and is designed to simplify the drop-off and pick-up process.

Anita Harrison, Stansted’s customer operations director, said: “Following our initial announcement last December of our intention to introduce a new barrier-less access for vehicles using the ESD, I’m pleased to confirm the system will go live on January 22.

“The ANPR technology will make dropping off and picking up passengers quicker and more convenient, reducing driver waiting times and helping improve passenger flows, and that is why we are confident it will improve the overall experience for users.”

The ESD charge of £7 for up to 15 minutes (£25 for longer) must be paid by midnight the day after making the drop-off, either online at pay.stanstedairport.com or by phoning 0345 017 5046.

No payments can be made when exiting the area, and vehicles in the ESD area must not be left unattended at any time.

Frequent users, including taxi drivers, can register for an account to automatically pay for ESD visits.

Discounts for eligible residents who live within 10 miles of the airport are unaffected by the change. Currently, those living within five miles pay 50p and those who reside between five and 10 miles away pay £1 for up to 15 minutes.

For full details, see Express Set Down – Stansted Airport.