Heathrow Drop-Off Charge Guide

Starting January 1, 2026, Heathrow Airport has updated its Terminal Drop-Off Charge to £7 per visit. This charge is part of the airport’s initiative to manage congestion and reduce environmental impact. Whether you are dropping off family or using a professional service, it is important to be aware of how this fee is managed to avoid significant penalties.

The £7 Terminal Drop-Off Charge

The £7 fee applies every time a vehicle enters a designated drop-off zone (forecourt) located directly outside Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. This is a universal charge that applies to all vehicles, including private cars, taxis, and PHVs.

Key rules to keep in mind:

ANPR Enforcement: The system uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to record your vehicle’s entry. There are no physical barriers or ticket machines in the drop-off zones.
No Waiting: These zones are strictly for quick drop-offs. From January 2026, a 10-minute maximum stay has been introduced. Exceeding this limit or leaving your vehicle unattended can result in a Parking Charge Notice (PCN).
Meet & Greet Convenience: When using our Meet & Greet service, you typically drive directly to the Short Stay car park rather than the forecourt drop-off lane. While this allows you to avoid the forecourt charge, you will be responsible for the standard car park entry fee to meet your driver.

How to Pay (Auto-Pay or Online)

Payments cannot be made on-site at the terminal. You must settle the charge digitally. Failure to pay by midnight the day after your visit will result in an £80 Parking Charge Notice (PCN), reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days.

Online & Mobile Payments

The most common way to pay is through the official Heathrow website. You can pay for a single trip or pre-pay for multiple visits in advance. You will need your vehicle registration number and a valid credit or debit card.

Auto-Pay

For frequent travelers or business users, Auto-Pay is the most reliable method. By setting up an account and linking your vehicle’s registration and payment details, the £7 fee is automatically deducted every time you enter a drop-off zone. This eliminates the risk of forgetting to pay and incurring a fine.

Telephone

You can also pay via the automated telephone service by calling 0330 008 5600. This service is available 24/7 and is a good alternative if you do not have immediate internet access.