Heathrow Drop-Off Charges 2026: The Complete Guide
Current fees, free zones, how to avoid charges, and everything else you need to know before dropping someone off at Heathrow.
Quick Summary
Heathrow charges £5 per drop-off at all terminal forecourts. Free drop-off is available at the Business Car Park and Long Stay Car Parks — but you'll need to walk further. Pre-booked private transfers include this fee in their fixed price.
Current Drop-Off Fees by Terminal
| Terminal | Fee | Time Allowed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal 2 | £5 | Up to 10 minutes | Forecourt drop-off |
| Terminal 3 | £5 | Up to 10 minutes | Forecourt drop-off |
| Terminal 4 | £5 | Up to 10 minutes | Forecourt drop-off |
| Terminal 5 | £5 | Up to 10 minutes | Forecourt drop-off |
Fees are charged automatically via ANPR cameras. Payment is taken from the card registered to your vehicle or via the Heathrow website.
Free Drop-Off Options
Business Car Park (T2, T3, T4, T5)
Free drop-off in the Business Car Park at each terminal. You'll need to walk a short distance to the terminal, but it's free and usually quick.
Long Stay Car Parks
All Long Stay car parks offer free drop-off. The walk to the terminal is longer, but there are free shuttle buses running regularly.
Drop off and drive away
If you drop off quickly and exit before the ANPR system registers your vehicle, you may avoid the charge — but this is risky and not recommended.
How the Charge Works
ANPR cameras read your number plate as you enter the terminal forecourt.
You have 10 minutes to drop off and exit before the charge applies.
If you stay longer than 10 minutes, the £5 charge is automatically applied.
Payment is taken from the card registered to your vehicle via the Heathrow website.
You can also pay online within 24 hours if you haven't registered a card.
Failure to pay results in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
Pre-Booked Transfers: No Surprise Charges
When you book a private airport transfer, the drop-off fee is included in your fixed price. Your driver knows exactly where to go and how long they have — no stress, no unexpected charges.
- Fixed price includes all terminal fees
- Driver handles the logistics
- Meet & greet at the terminal
- No need to worry about parking or charges
Book a Heathrow Transfer
Fixed price, no hidden fees, drop-off charges included. Professional drivers, flight tracking, meet & greet.
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