Are you planning a trip and wondering about the Heathrow drop off fee and parking costs? Don’t worry, we’ve got all the details covered. Understanding the fees and options available at each Heathrow terminal and drop off zone can help you save time and money.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Heathrow Airport drop off and parking costs.

Key Takeaways

• Heathrow Drop Off Fee: Heathrow Airport charges a £5 fee for all vehicles entering the terminal drop off zones. This fee applies to all four terminals and is designed to manage traffic and reduce congestion.
• Parking Options: Heathrow offers various parking options to suit different needs and budgets. Short stay car parks are ideal for those who want to accompany someone into the terminal, while long stay car parks offer a more economical option for longer trips.
• Avoiding the Drop Off Charge: There are several ways to avoid the Heathrow drop off fee, including using public transportation, arranging a drop-off nearby, carpooling, or using ride-sharing services.

Heathrow Drop Off Fee Explained

Heathrow Airport charges a drop off fee of £5 for all vehicles entering the terminal drop off zones. This applies to all four terminals – Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4, and Terminal 5. The fee is designed to manage traffic and reduce congestion around the terminals.

You can pay the Heathrow drop off charge online, through an automated telephone service, or by setting up an account for automatic payments. It’s important to note that there are no airport ticket machines at the drop off zones, so you must pay the charge by midnight the day after your visit to avoid a parking charge notice (PCN). Payments

Parking Options at Heathrow Airport

Heathrow offers various parking options to suit different needs and budgets. Here’s a detailed look at each one:

Short Stay Car Parks

Short stay car parks are perfect if you’re dropping someone off and want to accompany them into the terminal. These short stay car parks are located close to the terminals, making them very convenient.

Duration	Price
0-29 minutes	£6.00
30-44 minutes	£9.50
45-59 minutes	£12.70
1-2 hours	£16.00

Payments for short stay car parks must be made at on foot

Long Stay Car Parks

Long stay car parks are ideal for longer trips and offer a more economical option if you’re leaving your car for an extended period.

Duration	Off-Peak Dates	Peak Dates
First 30 minutes	Free	Free
First day	£37.70	£43.20
Additional 24-hour periods	£30.30	£34.50

A free transfer bus service operates between the long stay car parks and the terminals every 10-15 minutes.

Exemptions and Discounts

Blue Badge holders can apply for a 100% discount on the terminal drop-off charge. This applies whether you’re driving the vehicle yourself or being dropped off. To apply, you’ll need to provide your Blue Badge number and

How to Avoid the Heathrow Drop Off Charge

There are a few ways to avoid paying the Heathrow drop off fee:

1. Use Public Transportation: The Heathrow Express, Piccadilly Line, Elizabeth Line, and National Express coach services provide convenient drop-off points at the airport.
2. Arrange a Drop-Off Nearby: Some nearby locations, like business parks or hotels, offer free shuttle services to the airport.
3. Carpool with Friends or Family: Splitting the cost of the drop-off fee can make it more affordable.
4. Use Ride-Sharing Services: While ride-sharing services like Uber charge a fee, it may be cheaper than the airport’s drop-off fee, especially if shared with others.

Additionally, the Heathrow vehicle access charge aims to reduce congestion and promote sustainability.

Penalties for Non-Payment

If you forget to pay the Heathrow terminal drop off zone charge, you will receive a parking charge notice (PCN). The penalty is £80, reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days. Make sure to pay the charge on time to avoid these extra costs.

Sustainable Transport Initiatives

Heathrow is committed to sustainability and offers various initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of travel. Electric vehicles can benefit from certain incentives, and the airport encourages the use of public transport and car-sharing to minimize traffic and emissions.

Final Word

Understanding the Heathrow drop off charges and parking options can help you plan your trip better and save money. Whether you choose to use the short stay car parks, long stay car parks, or take advantage of public transportation, being aware of the fees and how to pay them will ensure a smooth experience at Heathrow Airport.

Remember, planning ahead can save you both time and money, making your trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

FAQs

How do I pay the Heathrow drop off charge?

You can pay the drop off charge online, via an automated telephone service, or by setting up an account for automatic payments.

What happens if I forget to pay the drop off fee?

If you forget to pay, you will receive a parking charge notice (PCN) of £80, reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days.

Are there any discounts available for blue badge holders?

Yes, blue badge holders can apply for a 100% discount on the drop off charge.

Can I avoid the drop off charge by using public transportation?

Yes, using public transportation like the Heathrow Express, Piccadilly Line, Elizabeth Line, and National Express coaches can help you avoid the drop off charge.

What are the costs for short stay parking at Heathrow?

Short stay parking costs £6.00 for up to 29 minutes, £9.50 for 30-44 minutes, £12.70 for 45-59 minutes, and £16.00 for 1-2 hours.