With Heathrow Airport being one of the busiest airports in the world, understanding its drop-off rules is more important than ever. If you’re planning to drop someone off at the airport—or even pick them up—it’s crucial to know about the Heathrow drop off charge, how to pay it, and how to avoid unnecessary fines.
Whether you’re a traveler, family member, or a professional driver, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know in 2025.
What is the Heathrow Drop Off Charge?
Heathrow introduced the drop-off charge as part of its efforts to reduce congestion and emissions at the airport. It applies to all terminals, including the popular Terminal 5 drop off area.
If you’re using a vehicle to drop someone off in front of the terminal, you must pay this charge. This includes private cars, taxis, and minicabs. The only way to avoid it is to use free alternatives or qualify for an exemption (we’ll cover that shortly).
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How Much is the Heathrow Drop Off Fee in 2025?
As of 2025, the Heathrow drop off fee remains £6 for each entry into the terminal drop-off zones. This charge applies to:
- Terminal 2
- Terminal 3
- Terminal 4
- Terminal 5
There are no barriers or booths. Instead, Heathrow uses automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras to record every entry, whether you stop for 10 minutes or 1 minute.
Who Needs to Pay the Heathrow Drop Off Charge?
The charge applies to almost all vehicles entering the designated drop-off areas:
- Private cars
- Taxis and rideshare vehicles
- Delivery and courier services
- Rental cars
You’re expected to pay the charge if you’re driving someone to Heathrow—even for a quick goodbye. However, there are a few exemptions, which we’ll touch on later.
How to Pay Heathrow Drop Off Charge
Paying the charge is easy but must be done on time. Here’s how to pay Heathrow drop off charge quickly and securely:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Visit the official Heathrow drop-off charge portal.
- Enter your vehicle registration number.
- Select the date and time of the drop-off.
- Choose your payment method and confirm.
Tip: You must pay by 11:59 PM the next day. Failure to do so will result in a fine.
To avoid the hassle, many people register for AutoPay, especially if you travel to Heathrow regularly.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
If you don’t pay the Heathrow drop off charge on time, you will receive a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) through the post. The penalty is currently £80, reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days.
Fines are issued based on number plate recognition, so there’s no getting around it. If you feel you’ve been wrongly charged, you can appeal, but you’ll need to provide strong evidence.
Who is Exempt From the Charge?
Some vehicles and drivers are eligible for an exemption or discount:
- Blue Badge holders (free but must register in advance)
- Emergency service vehicles
- Heathrow staff (with pre-authorized vehicles)
- Certain operational vehicles with valid permits
To apply for an exemption, visit Heathrow’s official site and submit documentation before your trip.
Want to Avoid the Drop Off Fee? Try These Alternatives
If you’re not keen on paying, there are still some ways to drop passengers off without paying the fee:
Free Drop-Off Options
- Use the Long Stay car parks, which offer free drop-off with a free shuttle to the terminals.
- Consider meeting passengers in the short stay car park (although this may have its own fees).
- Use public transport or arrange a shared ride.
Hire a Minicab to Heathrow
One of the best ways to skip the stress is to hire a professional minicab to Heathrow. Not only do you avoid parking hassles, but you also get dropped off conveniently by experienced drivers who manage the charges for you.
FAQs
Q: Can I pay later?
Yes, but it must be by 11:59 PM the day after your drop-off.
Q: Does it apply to electric cars?
Yes, electric vehicles are not exempt as of 2025.
Q: Is there a grace period?
No. The charge applies immediately once you enter the zone.
Q: Is Terminal 5 included?
Yes, all terminals including Terminal 5 drop off are covered under the same rules.
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The Heathrow drop off charge is a small but important detail for anyone planning a trip to or from the airport in 2025. Now that you know how to pay Heathrow drop off charges on time and avoid penalties, you can plan your journey better.
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