Heathrow Airport is set to increase its drop-off charge for the “kiss and fly” service by 16% starting January 1st. The current fee of £6 for dropping off passengers will rise to £7, with a new maximum stay limit of 10 minutes. Exceeding this time limit may result in a parking charge notice and an £80 penalty.
According to a spokesperson from the airport, this adjustment aligns Heathrow’s Terminal drop-off charge with other major airports in the UK and supports their sustainability strategy by reducing congestion, promoting the use of public transport, and ensuring the forecourts are utilized efficiently. However, free drop-off and pick-up options are still available at all terminals through the Park & Ride car parks.
Travel expert Guy Hobbs from consumer group Which? expressed concerns over the price increase and time restrictions at Heathrow, highlighting the added stress and cost for travelers. He recommended utilizing alternative long-stay car parks for free drop-off services across major UK airports.
Heathrow reported that 95% of passengers complete their drop-offs within the allocated 10 minutes, emphasizing that the time limit aims to enhance traffic flow and decrease congestion. The airport clarified that the drop-off fee contributes to investments in sustainable transport initiatives and encourages passengers to choose environmentally friendly travel options.
The airport’s website emphasizes the convenience of its drop-off areas located directly outside each terminal, providing a quick and easy way to drop off passengers. Payment options include a single drop-off payment or pre-payment for multiple drop-offs online or by phone, with payments required by midnight the following day.
Recent financial results revealed a 2% increase in Heathrow’s revenues in the first nine months of 2025, reaching £2.7 billion, driven by robust long-haul flying and increased uptake of premium services. Despite a slight 0.2% decrease in profits, they remained substantial at £1.5 billion.
Unlike many UK airports, Heathrow’s drop-off area does not allow passenger pick-ups. Instead, pick-ups are directed to the airport’s car parks, where a minimal charge applies for up to 30 minutes.
The latest price adjustment at Heathrow follows a trend identified by the RAC in July, showing that over half of the UK’s busiest airports raised their drop-off charges this year. Some airports increased fees for brief stops significantly, with certain locations implementing a third increase in charges.
While drivers at Heathrow may face higher fees and penalties, the RAC noted that most European airports offer free drop-off services. Research indicated that 11 out of the top 20 airports, based on passenger numbers in 2024, raised their prices compared to the previous year. Notably, Belfast City Airport saw a 33% increase in drop-off charges to £4 for 10 minutes. On a cost-per-minute basis, London Luton and Manchester were identified as the most expensive airports, charging £5 for a five-minute drop-off.
The airport’s drop-off fee adjustments are part of Heathrow’s efforts to support investments in bus, rail, and sustainable transport initiatives while encouraging passengers to choose environmentally friendly travel options.