Heathrow Airport will increase its drop-off charge for the “kiss and fly” service by 16% starting in January. The current fee of £6 will rise to £7 on January 1, with a maximum stay of 10 minutes. Drivers exceeding this time limit risk incurring an £80 parking charge notice.
A spokesperson for the airport stated that this adjustment aligns Heathrow’s drop-off charge with other major UK airports, supporting sustainability efforts by reducing congestion and promoting the use of public transport. Free drop-off and pick-up options remain available at all terminals through Park & Ride car parks.
Travel expert Guy Hobbs from consumer group Which? expressed concerns over the price increase and time restriction, highlighting alternative free drop-off options at major UK airports’ long stay car parks.
Heathrow reported that 95% of passengers complete their drop-offs within the allocated 10 minutes, aiming to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion with this time limit. The airport emphasized that the drop-off fee contributes to investments in bus, rail, and sustainable transport initiatives, encouraging passengers to consider environmentally friendly travel options.
Heathrow’s website emphasizes the convenience of its drop-off areas located right outside each terminal, offering payment options for single or multiple drop-offs online or by phone. The fee must be settled by midnight the following day, with no on-site payment options available.
Recent financial results revealed a 2% revenue increase to £2.7 billion for Heathrow in the first nine months of 2025, driven by strong long-haul flights and increased usage of premium services. Profits slightly declined by 0.2%, remaining at £1.5 billion.
Unlike many UK airports, Heathrow’s drop-off area is not designated for passenger pick-ups, directing those to the airport’s car parks with minimal charges for 30 minutes.
This rise follows a report by the RAC in July, indicating that over half of the UK’s busiest airports raised their drop-off charges this year, with some increasing fees for short stops by up to a third. While UK drivers face these adjustments and potential penalties, most European airports offer free drop-off services, according to the RAC’s findings.
Research by the RAC identified price hikes at 11 out of the top 20 airports based on 2024 passenger numbers, with the steepest increase observed at Belfast City Airport. London Luton and Manchester were highlighted as the most expensive airports on a cost-per-minute basis, charging £5 for five minutes.