Electric vehicle ownership in the UK has exploded, with over 1 million pure EVs now on the road. If you’re driving an EV to the airport, you need to know which car parks offer charging and how to plan your trip. Here’s the complete guide.
The Challenge
Unlike petrol or diesel cars, you can’t just leave an EV parked for two weeks without thinking about the battery. While modern EVs lose very little charge when parked (typically 1-2% per week), you need to ensure you have enough range to drive home after your trip. If you drove to the airport on a low battery, you might return to a car that can’t make it home.
The solution? Either charge before you leave home, or use an EV charging point at the airport car park.
Which UK Airports Have EV Charging?
Heathrow
Over 200 charge points across official car parks (Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5). Mix of 7kW and 22kW chargers. Some off-airport providers including APH also offer EV bays. Heathrow has the most comprehensive EV infrastructure of any UK airport.
Gatwick
Around 80 charge points in official long-stay and short-stay car parks. North and South terminals both covered. Several off-airport operators near the A23 are adding chargers.
Manchester
Approximately 60 charge points across JetParks and official car parks. Good coverage across all three terminals. Demand is growing fast so book early if you need a charging bay.
Stansted
Around 60 charge points in mid-stay and long-stay. The airport has committed to expanding this as EV adoption grows.
Edinburgh
EV charging available in the multi-storey car park. Currently around 30 points with expansion planned.
Birmingham
Around 40 charge points in short-stay and long-stay. The airport’s proximity to the M42 (which has multiple rapid chargers along the route) means you can top up before arriving if needed.
Tips for EV Drivers
Charge at home before you leave. This is the simplest approach. Leave home with a full battery and you’ll have plenty of range for the return journey even after two weeks parked.
Book an EV bay if available. Some providers let you specifically request an EV charging bay when booking. Do this to guarantee a charger — turning up and hoping is risky, especially during peak periods.
Check the charger type. Most airport car parks use Type 2 (7kW or 22kW) chargers. Some are adding rapid chargers. Make sure your car and cable are compatible.
Don’t rely on 100% charge on return. Airport chargers can be busy or out of service. Plan your return journey assuming you’ll have the same charge level as when you arrived. If you get a top-up, it’s a bonus.
Consider Park & Ride with EV charging. Some off-airport providers now offer dedicated EV bays. These are often cheaper than official airport car parks and the EV charging is included in the price.
The Future
Every major UK airport has committed to expanding EV infrastructure as part of their sustainability plans. By 2028, most airports aim to have EV charging available in at least 10% of all parking spaces. For now, plan ahead and book early.
Search for EV-friendly parking at your airport — filter results by EV charging when available.