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Collecting a hire car at the airport is very convenient for those arriving by plane, but the benefits go beyond that. Airport locations typically offer a wider range and greater availability of vehicles, which is especially useful during peak holiday seasons. In addition, many airport hire desks operate 24 hours a day, making it easier to collect or return your vehicle during off-peak times, such as late-night or early-morning flights.

Hire car offices may be located inside the terminal, typically right after baggage claim, or in nearby off-site areas. This is common at major airports such as London Heathrow (LHR) or Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris, where dedicated car rental centres bring several companies together in one location. If your vehicle is being collected off-site, the hire company (or the airport) provides a free shuttle service to get you there comfortably. Once you arrive, the collection process is the same as usual. To find out whether your hire desk is located inside or outside the terminal, check your booking confirmation to see if it mentions an in-terminal pick-up or a shuttle to the location.

A shuttle is a free transport service provided by the hire company (or the airport) when the vehicle collection point is outside the terminal or too far to walk. These shuttles run frequently, with journey times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes depending on the airport’s layout. Even if the hire location is close by, a shuttle might still be needed, as internal airport transportation don’t always reach those areas. Don’t worry — the service is simple to use. Just follow the signs inside the terminal and you’ll be on your way.

At most major international airports, car hire companies offer extended hours or 24/7 service to accommodate flights at any time of day — including overnight arrivals and early departures. At smaller or regional airports, hours may be more limited, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., for example. That’s why it’s always important to check the operating hours of your selected hire company before you book, especially if your journey falls outside normal business hours.