Heathrow Drop Off Charge: Know Before You Go! (Save Money & Time)

Looking to drop someone off at Heathrow Airport? Wondering about the Heathrow Drop Off Charge? Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the system and ensure a smooth airport experience.

What is the Heathrow Drop Off Charge?

Introduced in November 2021, the Heathrow Drop Off Charge applies to all vehicles entering the terminal forecourts (passenger drop-off zones) at Heathrow Airport. This includes minicabs, private cars, and even taxis.

How Much is the Heathrow Drop Off Charge?

The standard charge is £5 each time your vehicle enters a terminal drop-off zone.

How Does it Work?

Heathrow uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to track vehicles. There are no physical barriers, so you’ll be charged simply by entering the drop-off zone.

How to Pay the Heathrow Drop Off Charge

Pre-pay online

Heathrow's website offers pre-payment options.

Pay on the day

You can pay online or by phone by 11.59 pm the following day.

How long to pay heathrow drop off charge

You have until midnight the day after you use the Heathrow drop-off zone to pay the charge. So, for example, if you drop someone off on Tuesday, you would have until midnight on Wednesday to pay the fee. If you fail to pay the charge, you’ll be fined. The penalty charge notice is £40 if you pay within 14 days, rising to £80 after that.

You can avoid all that hassle by booking a minicab with Heathrow Drop Off which already covers Heathrow Drop Off charge in your quotation.

Important Exemptions

Blue Badge holders with a pre-registered vehicle are exempt
Heathrow permitted operational vehicles are exempt.

The Cost Comparison: Heathrow Drop Off Charge vs. Parking

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide

Drop-Off Duration	Heathrow Drop Off Charge	Short-Stay Car Park**
15 minutes	£5	Likely more than £5 (minimum charges apply)
30 minutes	£5	Around £6-£10
1 hour	£5	Over £10

Alternatives to the Heathrow Drop Off Charge

Short Stay Car Parks

Consider short-stay car parks for a longer drop-off window, but remember the additional cost and hassle of parking and potentially waiting for a shuttle.

Free drop-off locations

Designated free drop-off locations are a few miles outside the airport, often requiring a transfer to the terminal via public transport. This might not be ideal for travellers with heavy luggage or limited mobility.

Save Money

Our competitive fares can be more economical compared to parking fees, especially for short drop-offs (see table above).

Convenience

Relax and avoid the stress of navigating the airport and finding parking. We'll get you right to the terminal drop-off zone, minimizing your time spent airside.

Why Choose Heathrow Drop Off for Your Heathrow Airport Transfer?

While the Heathrow Drop Off Charge applies to all vehicles, choosing Heathrow Drop Off for your airport transfer offers several benefits.

Door-to-Door Service

We pick you up from your desired location and deliver you right to the departures area. No need to worry about public transport or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Stress-Free Drop-Off

Our experienced drivers ensure a smooth and efficient journey, allowing you to focus on your farewells.

We Cater to All Needs

We offer a variety of minicab options, including Heathrow Minibus and wheelchair-accessible vehicles, to suit your travel party's size and requirements.

Book Your Heathrow Drop-Off Today!

Avoid the Heathrow Drop Off Charge hassle and let Heathrow Drop Off handle your airport transfer. We offer a variety of minicab options, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, to cater to all your needs.

Call us now or visit our website for a free quote and to book your comfortable and convenient Heathrow drop-off!

Book A Heathrow Minicab