What is the Heathrow Airport Drop-Off Charge?
Just like many other Airports in the UK, Heathrow Airport also charges a fixed fee for every vehicle that enters the drop-off zone of any of its terminals. These zones are situated right outside the terminals and provide direct access to the passengers. Keep in mind that these are drop-off zones, and you are not allowed to pick up passengers from within them.
Heathrow Airport enforced this charge back in November 2021, and it is effective 24/7 throughout the year. Whether you make a single trip in a day or multiple trips, you will have to pay the drop-off charge for every trip.
The drop-off charge is enforced through an Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system that scans the number plate of every vehicle that enters the drop-off zone, making it immediately liable for a fixed drop-off charge. Let’s discuss the drop-off charge at Heathrow Airport in detail here.
How much is the Drop-Off Charge at Heathrow Airport?
Until December 31, 2024, Heathrow Airport used to charge a fixed £5 fee for every vehicle that entered its drop-off zone. However, from January 01, 2025, they have increased the drop-off charge to £6. It is important to note that this drop-off charge must be paid before midnight of the next day to avoid heavy fines.
Keep in mind that there is no time limit for staying within the drop-off zone. However, you cannot leave your car unattended.
Methods to Pay Heathrow Drop-Off Charge
Keeping the ease of the visitors in mind, Heathrow Airport offers a number of convenient methods to pay the drop-off charge. These methods are designed to promote efficiency and convenience for both the travellers and the system. Here are the details of these methods:
Cashless Payments
This is a secure and probably the quickest method to pay the drop-off charge. This method requires the use of a debit or credit card, eliminating the risk of loss. This also offers quick processing, reducing the time required to make the payment.
Online Payments
Integrating cutting-edge technology, Heathrow Airport also offers an online payment option for the drop-off charge. You can download the mobile application or use their online web portal to make the payment. This method also allows the drivers to make advance payments for their future trips, which will stay valid for the next 12 months.
Payment Kiosks
At Heathrow Airport, you will find payment kiosks at several points that are installed to allow drivers to pay their drop-off charge on the go. These kiosks feature a user-friendly interface, facilitating highly quick and easy payments.
Contactless Payments
Heathrow Airport has installed several contactless payment points throughout the terminal entrances at the airport. This method enables the drivers to pay the drop-off charge with a single tap of a card or a smart device with NFC capabilities.
Phone Call
You can also pay your drop-off charge through an automated telephone line. All you have to do is dial 0330 008 5600.
What If You Fail to Pay the Drop-Off Charge in Time?
We have already mentioned that you are obliged to pay the drop-off charge at Heathrow Airport before midnight of the next day. If you fail to do so, you will receive a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) of £80, which you will have to pay within the next 40 days.
However, if you pay the PCN within the first 14 days of receiving it, your fine will be reduced to £40.
Are Any Vehicles Exempted from the Heathrow Drop-Off Charge?
Yes, there are some vehicles that are exempted from the drop-off charge. For example, if you are a registered blue badge holder, whether the driver or the passenger, your vehicle will be exempted from the drop-off charge. However, you will have to register your vehicle before making a visit.
There are some other vehicles that are exempted from the drop-off charge at Heathrow, i.e.:
- Heathrow valet parking
- Roadside recovery vehicle
- Bus or coach
- Two-wheeled motorbike
Are There Any Free Drop-Off Areas at Heathrow?
Yes, there are free drop-off areas at Heathrow Airport, known as Heathrow Park & Ride or Long Stay Parking. These areas offer a free stay for up to 30 minutes, allowing you to drop off the passengers without any charges. However, you will have to pay a small sum of money if you extend your stay by more than 30 minutes.
These free drop-off zones are situated at a substantial distance from the terminal. However, Heathrow Airport offers free shuttle service to the terminal from long-stay parking areas that passengers can take to access the terminals.
