London Gatwick is set to launch the first robotic airport parking service in the UK.

The service, made in partnership with specialists Stanley Robotics, will allow passengers to drive their cars into a dedicated drop-off area at the airport’s South Terminal, after which robots lift the car by its tyres and park it in a secure space.

Passengers then have the choice to either walk from the robotic parking area to the terminal building, or use a free shuttle bus service.

Gatwick Airport says that the parking area features 24-hour security patrols and uses an ANPR-controlled entry and exit system.

The service should work with up to 95 per cent of car models, too, though drivers of vehicles with “unusual dimensions or features” should check beforehand.

Drivers can keep their keys with them after dropping the car off and, upon their return, the vehicle will be waiting in a dedicated collection area.

“This is a real game-changer for our passengers. It’s quick, easy and completely hassle-free – and you even get to keep your keys, giving extra peace of mind while you’re enjoying your holiday,” Oli Bedford, head of airport access, marketing and commercial products at London Gatwick, said.

It’s the first time that Stanley Robotics has deployed its robotic parking technology in the UK, having previously installed a similar service at Lyon Airport in France. Basel Mulhouse Airport, also in France, is believed to have signed up to have the robotic parking service installed, too.

Clément Boussard, Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Robotics: “We are thrilled to partner with London Gatwick, a global leader in aviation, to deploy our solution and address their critical parking capacity challenges as they prepare for significant growth.

“This project marks a major milestone for Stanley Robotics in the UK, and we are proud to bring our innovative technology to one of the world’s most forward-thinking airports.”

The new service is expected to launch next month.