London Gatwick has become the first UK airport to introduce robotic parking in partnership with Stanley Robotics, launching the service for customer journeys in August. Passengers drive into a private enclosed cabin near the South Terminal, scan their booking, and leave their vehicle while retaining their keys. An autonomous robot then slides underneath, lifts the car by its tyres, and transports it to a secure storage area.

The system monitors return flight details to have the vehicle waiting in a collection cabin upon arrival. The facility is within walking distance of the terminal with a free shuttle also available. Unlike traditional valet parking, passengers keep their keys throughout the trip, with on-site staff available for emergency item retrieval.

Robotic parking maximizes capacity by positioning vehicles closer together without needing human access. Oli Bedford, Head of Airport Access, Marketing and Commercial Products at London Gatwick, called it "a real game-changer." Stanley Robotics CEO Clément Boussard said the technology addresses critical parking capacity challenges as the airport prepares for significant growth.

The service accommodates most standard passenger cars up to 2.6 tonnes, 2.3 metres height, 3.3 metres wheelbase, and 21-inch wheel diameter. Advance booking is required with no same-day drive-up availability.