Heathrow Airport will increase its drop-off charge for the “kiss and fly” service by 16% starting January next year. The current £6 fee will rise to £7, with a new 10-minute time limit in place. Exceeding this limit may result in a penalty notice and an £80 fee.
A spokesperson for the airport mentioned that this adjustment aligns Heathrow’s drop-off charge with other major UK airports. The change aims to reduce congestion, promote the use of public transport, and ensure the forecourts serve their intended purpose. However, free drop-off and pick-up options are still available at all terminals in the Park & Ride car parks.
Travel expert Guy Hobbs from Which? expressed concerns about the increased price and strict time limit, suggesting using alternative long-stay car parks at major UK airports for free drop-offs. Heathrow reported that 95% of passengers complete their drop-offs within the allotted 10 minutes, which helps manage traffic flow.
The airport emphasized that the drop-off fee contributes to investments in sustainable transport initiatives and encourages environmentally friendly travel options. Heathrow’s website highlights the convenience of its drop-off areas outside each terminal, offering various payment methods for drop-offs.
Recent financial reports revealed a 2% revenue increase to £2.7 billion in the first nine months of the year, driven by long-haul flights and premium services. Despite a 0.2% profit dip, Heathrow still maintained a profit of £1.5 billion.
Unlike many UK airports, Heathrow’s drop-off area is exclusively for drop-offs, not pick-ups. Passenger pick-ups are allowed in the airport’s car parks with a minimal charge for 30 minutes.
The rise in drop-off charges follows a trend identified by the RAC, which reported that more than half of the UK’s busiest airports increased their drop-off fees this year. While UK airports impose charges, most European airports offer free drop-offs, according to the RAC’s findings.
Among the top 20 airports based on passenger numbers in 2024, 11 had raised their prices from the previous year. Belfast City Airport saw a 33% increase in drop-off charges to £4 for 10 minutes, while London Luton and Manchester were noted as the most expensive on a cost-per-minute basis, charging £5 for five minutes.