If you’re heading to Heathrow Airport and need to drop someone off, understanding the new drop-off charges is essential. Introduced in November 2021, the £5 drop-off charge applies to all vehicles using the terminal forecourts, 24/7. The charge was brought in to help reduce congestion and improve traffic flow around the busy airport.
In this guide, we’ll explain how the charge works, how to pay it, and offer some tips for avoiding fines—so you can make your Heathrow experience as smooth as possible.
Understanding Heathrow Drop-Off Charges
Heathrow Airport charges a £5 fee for all vehicles dropping off passengers at any terminal forecourt. This charge is enforced 24/7 and applies to every vehicle, regardless of the duration spent in the drop-off area. The system uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to track vehicles, so the fee is unavoidable once you enter the drop-off zone.
Understanding this charge and planning ahead can help you avoid unnecessary complications during your trip to the airport.
How to Pay the Heathrow Drop-Off Charge
Paying the Heathrow drop-off charge is straightforward and can be done through several methods:
- Online Payment: Visit Heathrow’s official website to pay the £5 fee using your vehicle registration number.
- Phone Payment: You can also pay by calling the automated telephone service at 0330 008 5600.
- Autopay Account: Frequent users can set up an autopay account to handle payments automatically.
- Please note that payments cannot be made at airport ticket machines or within the terminal drop-off areas.
Consequences of Non-Payment
If you fail to pay the Heathrow drop-off charge by midnight the day after your drop-off, you will receive an £80 Parking Charge Notice (PCN). However, this fine can be reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days. It’s important to address the payment as soon as possible to avoid further penalties and complications.
Making sure you stay within the payment deadline is essential to avoid unnecessary fines during your airport visit.
Drop-Off Options at Heathrow
Heathrow offers several drop-off options for passengers:
- Terminal Drop-Off Zones: The most convenient option, located right at each terminal forecourt, with a £5 charge per vehicle. This drop-off zone is just a 2-minute walk to the terminals.
- Short Stay Car Parks: Ideal for those who need more time. Prices start at £7.50 for up to 29 minutes, £11.00 for 30-44 minutes, and £13.50 for 45-59 minutes. These car parks are also within a 2-minute walk from the terminal.
- Long Stay Car Parks: For a free option, you can park for up to 30 minutes free with a 5-minute shuttle ride to the terminal.
Terminal-Specific Drop-Off Locations
Here’s a breakdown of drop-off locations for each Heathrow terminal:
- Terminal 2: Located at the Terminal 2 Drop-Off Zone and Short Stay car park (postcode: TW6 1EW).
- Terminal 3: Use the Terminal 3 Drop-Off Zone or Short Stay car park (postcode: TW6 1QG).
- Terminal 4: Drop-off is available at the Terminal 4 Drop-Off Zone and Short Stay car park (postcode: TW6 3YD).
- Terminal 5: Terminal 5 Drop-Off Zone and Short Stay car park are your options (postcode: TW6 2GA).
These drop-off locations are all close to the terminals, ensuring convenience for travellers.
Free Drop-Off Alternatives
Heathrow Airport provides a free option for those looking to avoid the £5 drop-off charge:
- Long Stay Car Parks: You can park for up to 30 minutes free of charge.
- Shuttle Service: Free shuttle buses operate between Long Stay car parks and all terminals.
- Transfer Time: Shuttle buses run every 10-15 minutes and take around 5 minutes to reach the terminals.
This option offers a cost-effective and convenient alternative to the terminal forecourt fees.
Exemptions and Special Cases
Certain passengers and vehicles may be exempt from paying the Heathrow drop-off charge:
- Blue Badge Holders: If you or your passenger has a valid Blue Badge, you can apply for an exemption to waive the drop-off fee. Additionally, Blue Badge parking is available near terminal access routes and Help Points for convenience.
- Emergency Vehicles: Ambulances, police vehicles, and other emergency services are automatically exempt from the charge.
To apply for a Blue Badge exemption, complete the process online before your journey to ensure your exemption is recognized when you arrive at the terminal.
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Comparison with Other UK Airports
Heathrow is not the only UK airport with a drop-off charge. Similar fees have been introduced at other major airports:
- Gatwick Airport: Charges £5 for a 10-minute drop-off at terminal forecourts.
- Manchester Airport: Also implements a £5 fee for drop-offs at all terminals.
These charges are becoming more common at airports across the UK, aimed at reducing congestion and improving air quality around busy terminals.
Tips for a Smooth Heathrow Drop-Off Experience
Planning ahead can make a huge difference when navigating Heathrow’s drop-off charges. Here are a few tips to ensure a hassle-free experience:
- Pay the Charge Promptly: Don’t forget to pay the drop-off fee by midnight the following day to avoid fines.
- Use Free Drop-Off Options: Consider using the Long Stay car parks for a 30-minute free drop-off.
- Book an Airport Transfer: If you want to skip the hassle entirely, WeKnow Group’s airport transfer service can provide a smooth and convenient solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free taxi pick-up point at Heathrow Terminal 5?
Yes, the closest free pick-up point is at the Terminal 5 Short Stay car park. You can also use the Long Stay car park, where the first 30 minutes are free.
How long do I have to pay the drop-off charge?
The drop-off charge must be paid by midnight the day after using the drop-off zone to avoid fines.
Can I avoid the Heathrow drop-off fee?
Yes, by using the Long Stay car parks for a free 30-minute drop-off, with a shuttle bus to the terminal.
What happens if I don’t pay the drop-off charge?
You will receive an £80 Parking Charge Notice (reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days).
Where Are the Heathrow Drop-Off Locations for Each Terminal?
