Heathrow Airport will increase its drop-off charge for the “kiss and fly” service by 16% starting January 1st. The current £6 fee will rise to £7, with a maximum 10-minute stay allowed before facing an £80 parking charge notice.
A representative from the airport mentioned that this adjustment aligns Heathrow’s Terminal drop-off charge with other major UK airports, aiming to reduce congestion, promote public transport use, and maintain the forecourts’ intended purpose. Free drop-off and pick-up choices are still accessible at all terminals through Park & Ride car parks.
Travel expert Guy Hobbs from consumer group Which? expressed concerns about the increased price and strict time limit, suggesting passengers consider alternative long-stay car parks at UK airports for free drop-offs.
Heathrow reported that 95% of passengers complete their drop-offs within the permitted 10 minutes, emphasizing the time restriction’s role in managing traffic flow and congestion. The airport clarified that the drop-off fee contributes to investments in bus, rail, and sustainable transport initiatives, encouraging environmentally friendly travel options.
Heathrow’s website highlights the convenience of its drop-off areas located directly outside each terminal, providing options to pay for single or multiple drop-offs online or by phone. Payment must be settled by midnight the following day, as no on-site or terminal payment facilities are available.
Recent financial data revealed a 2% revenue increase to £2.7 billion at Heathrow during the initial nine months of 2025, attributed to robust long-haul flights and higher utilization of premium services. Although profits slightly decreased by 0.2%, they remained at £1.5 billion.
Unlike several UK airports, Heathrow’s drop-off location does not accommodate passenger pick-ups, which are directed to the airport’s car parks with minimal charges for 30 minutes.
The recent price adjustment follows a July report by the RAC indicating that over half of the UK’s busiest airports raised drop-off charges this year, with some increasing fees for brief stops by up to a third. The RAC highlighted that while UK drivers face rising costs and potential penalties, most European airports provide free drop-off services.
Research by the RAC identified price hikes at 11 of the top 20 airports based on 2024 passenger numbers, with Belfast City witnessing a 33% increase to £4 for a 10-minute stop. London Luton and Manchester were noted as the most expensive on a cost-per-minute basis, charging £5 for five minutes of drop-off time.