Heathrow Airport will raise its drop-off charge for the “kiss and fly” service by 16% starting in January. The current fee of £6 per drop-off will increase to £7 on January 1, with a maximum 10-minute stay limit in place to avoid a parking charge notice and an £80 penalty.
A representative from the UK’s busiest airport stated that this adjustment aligns Heathrow’s Terminal drop-off fee with other major UK airports, supporting their sustainability strategy by reducing congestion, promoting public transport use, and ensuring the forecourts are utilized as intended. Despite the change, free drop-off and pick-up options are still accessible at all terminals through Park & Ride car parks.
Travel expert Guy Hobbs from the consumer group Which? expressed concerns about the heightened cost and strict time limit, suggesting alternative long-stay car parks at major UK airports for free drop-offs.
Heathrow noted that 95% of passengers currently complete their drop-offs within the allotted 10 minutes, emphasizing that the time restriction aims to enhance traffic flow and minimize congestion.
The airport clarified that the drop-off fee contributes to their investment plans in bus, rail, and sustainable transport initiatives, encouraging passengers to consider travel options with lower environmental impacts.
Heathrow’s website highlights the convenience of its drop-off locations directly outside each terminal, offering online or phone pre-payment options for multiple drop-offs. Payment must be completed by midnight the following day, as no on-site or terminal payment facilities are available.
Recent financial reports revealed a 2% revenue increase to £2.7 billion in the first nine months of 2025 for Heathrow, driven by robust long-haul flights and growing uptake of premium services, resulting in a £1.5 billion profit.
Unlike many UK airports, Heathrow’s drop-off area is designated solely for drop-offs, with passenger pick-ups accommodated in car parks at a minimal charge for 30 minutes.
The rise in drop-off charges at Heathrow follows a trend among the UK’s busiest airports, as highlighted in a July report by the motoring group RAC, indicating increased fees for short stops at several airports.
While UK drivers face escalating costs and potential penalties, most European airports provide free drop-off services, according to the RAC’s findings. Among the top 20 airports based on 2024 passenger numbers, 11 had raised their prices, with the steepest increase observed at Belfast City Airport, where charges surged by a third to £4 for a 10-minute stay. London Luton and Manchester were noted as the most expensive on a cost-per-minute basis, charging £5 for five minutes.
