Heathrow £5 terminal drop-off charge: What you need to know, how to pay and how to use free drop-off

Heathrow's drop-off charge across all terminal forecourts starts today (November 1) .

The charge has been introduced as part of the airport's long-term sustainability goals and the £5 fee will be managed using Automatic Number Plate Recognition systems.

Funds raised will contribute towards sustainable transport initiatives, with any additional revenue used to help lower overall airport charges.

However, you still have the option to drop-off free of charge by using the airport’s Long Stay car park facilities, which all offer free regular shuttle buses to the terminals.

The charge, initially proposed last year, will prevent a car led recovery and reduce airport-related traffic while protecting jobs at Heathrow, which has suffered a £3bn loss due to the pandemic.

Drivers will be charged a £5 flat-fee per visit to the terminal drop-off zones. Income generated from the scheme will contribute towards new sustainable transport initiatives at the airport.

Heathrow is the last major UK airport to introduce such a charge and it will bring it in line with all other major UK airports that already have similar schemes in place.

The Terminal Drop-Off Charge will be managed through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems and will apply to all vehicles using Heathrow’s terminal drop-off facilities.

Blue Badge holders will be eligible for a 100% discount.

Passengers will have the option to pay the £5 charge in advance, or by midnight the day after making the drop-off.

Payments can only be made by card, either online or by an automated telephone service. Non-payment will result in an £80 Parking Charge Notice (PCN), reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days.

Passengers will continue to have the option to travel to the airport via more sustainable means such as Heathrow Express, TFL Rail, London Underground, bus or national coach services.

You can pay online or by phone – drivers need to call 0330 008 5600.

More information on the charge can be found here