Smoother Access to KEF

On March 4, a change will be implemented regarding the use of the designated “drop-off lane” at the departure entrance of Keflavík Airport. This lane is intended for drivers who need to pull up briefly to drop off passengers or unload luggage. However, some vehicles have been parked there for extended periods, causing congestion and obstructing access for passengers and emergency services.

The new measure aims to ensure quick and safe access for everyone dropping off passengers at the airport. To achieve this, a fee will be introduced for vehicles remaining in the drop-off lane for more than five minutes. In response to passenger needs, the free parking time at the P2 short-term parking area on the arrivals side of the terminal will be extended from 15 minutes to 30 minutes.

Each day, between 1,500 and 1,700 vehicles pass through the drop-off lane, with traffic peaking during busy airport hours. Delays and queues can quickly form if vehicles stop for too long or park in the lane.

A study conducted over a one-month period showed that around 8% of vehicles remained in the drop-off lane for 16-20 minutes, disrupting traffic flow and leading to queues that inconvenience other airport visitors. To prevent this and improve circulation, a fee will be charged for vehicles staying longer than five minutes.

The vast majority of drivers use the drop-off lane as intended, stopping only briefly. The median stopping time is approximately two and a half minutes, and around 80% of vehicles stay for five minutes or less.

Based on this data, the decision was made to allow five minutes of free use in the drop-off lane before introducing a fee. This will help maintain smooth traffic flow and ensure convenient access for all airport visitors. The drop-off lane will remain free for those who use it as intended.

The pricing details for extended stays in the drop-off lane can be found [here].

Drivers who need to stay longer than the designated drop-off time can use the short-term parking areas near the terminal: P1 on the departures side and P2 on the arrivals side. Previously, the first 15 minutes of parking at P1 and P2 were free of charge. To accommodate those who need extra time—such as those greeting or saying goodbye to friends and family—the free parking period at P2 has now been extended to 30 minutes.