Let’s face it, getting to Heathrow can be a mission on its own. Add confusing charges, unclear signage, and the fear of surprise fines? Not ideal, especially if you’re a private hire driver, Uber partner, or just dropping off family before a flight. That’s exactly why we’ve put together this easy-to-follow guide on how to pay the Heathrow Airport drop-off charge in 2025, what’s changed, and how you can avoid unnecessary charges.
Whether you’re working with a PCO car, running a private hire business, or simply giving someone a lift, this article cuts through the noise and gives you everything you need to know, in plain English.
What Is the Heathrow Drop-Off Charge?
As of 1st January 2025, it now costs £6 per visit to use the designated terminal drop-off zones at London Heathrow Airport. This applies to all terminals, T2, T3, T4, and T5.
There are no barriers. Instead, Heathrow uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, meaning you’re automatically charged the moment you enter the drop-off area. You won’t find any ticket machines at the terminal either, so make sure you know how to pay (we’ll get to that in a sec).
The drop-off fee is active 24 hours a day, all year round. It applies every single time you enter a drop-off zone, even if it’s the same day.
Where Are the Drop-Off Zones Located?
Each terminal has its own dedicated drop-off zone, typically right outside the terminal forecourt for easy access:
- Terminal 2: Off Constellation Way: follow signs for “T2 Drop-Off”.
- Terminal 3: Via Camborne Road: clear signage to the drop lanes.
- Terminal 4: Through Stratford Road and up the ramp.
- Terminal 5: Off Wayfarer Road: keep left at the top for drop-off lanes.
If you return a second time in the same day, you’ll need to pay again, so plan ahead.
How to Pay the Heathrow Drop-Off Charge
You’ve got a few options when it comes to paying the drop-off charge at Heathrow Airport:
- Online via the official Heathrow payment portal
- By phone using their automated telephone service
- Autopay – best suited for regular or business use
You must pay by midnight the day after your drop-off. Otherwise, you’ll receive a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) of £80, which is reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days.
There’s no option to pay at an airport ticket machine, so don’t wait until you arrive.
Setting Up an Autopay Account
If you’re a private hire driver, courier, or Uber partner, autopay is a no-brainer. It links your vehicle number plate to an account that automatically charges you when you enter a Heathrow drop-off zone.
You can create a personal or business account, manage multiple vehicles, check trip history, and avoid missing a payment.
Free Drop-Off Option at Heathrow
Looking to avoid the fee altogether?
There’s a free drop-off option available at Heathrow’s Park & Ride car parks (formerly Long Stay). You can stay up to 29 minutes without paying anything, and there’s a shuttle bus that takes passengers to the terminal, free of charge.
Ideal if you’re not in a rush and want to keep costs down.
Are Any Vehicles Exempt from the Drop-Off Charge?
✅ Blue Badge Holders
If you’re dropping off a Blue Badge holder, you can avoid the charge, but only if you register the drop-off in advance or by midnight the next day.
This includes Uber drivers or private hire vehicles carrying eligible passengers.
❌ Electric Vehicles & PCO Cars
Unfortunately, there are no exemptions for EVs, PCO drivers, or minicabs. The charge applies equally across all types of vehicles.
Can You Pick Up from the Terminal?
No. Picking up passengers directly from terminal forecourts is not allowed.
Instead, head to the Short Stay car park for the terminal you’re meeting someone at. It’s the only authorised pickup area for Uber drivers, family members, or minicabs.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
Forget to pay? You’ll receive an £80 PCN via post.
If you’re quick, paying within 14 days reduces it to £40. You can pay your PCN online. If you’re a regular at Heathrow, set up autopay to avoid these fines entirely.
Heathrow Charges: ULEZ Reminder
If your vehicle doesn’t meet ULEZ standards, you’ll also need to pay a £12.50 daily charge on top of the Heathrow drop-off charge. This is especially important for older petrol or diesel cars. Check your vehicle status before entering.
How TappAXI Supports Smart Drivers at Heathrow
At TappAXI, we know the daily challenges of working in and around one of the world’s busiest airports. Whether you’re operating a Heathrow Airport taxi service or driving private hire across London, unexpected charges and fines can eat into your earnings fast.
That’s why TappAXI is built to support smart, professional drivers. We keep you informed about drop-off charges, ULEZ rules, and payment deadlines. We’ll even help you set up your Heathrow autopay account and get you on the road with a fully PCO-ready vehicle that meets all requirements.
Driving at Heathrow doesn’t have to be stressful. With TappAXI, you stay ahead, stay compliant, and stay earning.
FAQs
Do you have to pay to drop off at Heathrow?
Yes, from January 2025, the charge is £6 per visit to any terminal’s drop-off zone.
Do you have to pay to pick up at Heathrow Terminal 5?
No, but pickups are not allowed at terminal forecourts. Use the Short Stay car park instead.
Is disabled parking free at Heathrow Airport?
Yes, Blue Badge holders are exempt from the drop-off fee, but you must register in advance or by midnight the next day.
How much is the drop-off fee at Heathrow in 2025?
It’s £6 per entry, and must be paid online, by phone, or via autopay.
Conclusion
Navigating Heathrow Airport’s drop-off charges doesn’t have to be stressful. With clear steps for payment, smart planning, and help from services like TappAXI, you can stay ahead of charges, avoid PCNs, and focus on what matters, driving.
So before your next airport run, get your account sorted, know your zones, and if you’re not in a hurry, consider the free Park & Ride. It could save you more than just money.
