How to Pay Heathrow Airport Drop-Off Charges?
What are the Heathrow Drop-Off Charges?
Heathrow Airport, like many other airports in the UK, charges a fee every time a vehicle enters the drop-off zone of the airport. These drop-off zones are situated right outside of the terminals and give the passengers a quick access to them.
The drop-off charge was enforced in November 2021, and apply 24/7 all around the year. The vehicles number plates are scanned through Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) at the entrance and the vehicle will become liable to pay the charge immediately. However, unlike other airports in the UK, there is no time limit to stay in the drop-off zone at Heathrow Airport, as long as you don’t leave the car unattended.
The drop-off charge, however, can be confusing for some drivers. But we have tried to answer some frequently asked questions in our today’s blog post. Let’s begin!
How Much is the Drop-Off Charge at Heathrow?
The drop-off charge at Heathrow Airport is £5, which is in line with Manchester and Gatwick airports. The charge will apply any time a vehicle enters the designated zone, regardless of the time and day.
This means if you try to re-enter the drop-off zone one minute after you left, you will have to pay £5 again. It is important to remember that you must pay the drop-off charge by midnight on the next day.
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How to Pay Drop-Off Charge at Heathrow Airport?
Drop-off charges at Heathrow airport can be paid using several digital methods, making the payment convenient and cashless. These methods are introduced to ensure efficiency and ease for both the system and the travellers. Here are the methods that you can use to pay the drop-off charge:
Cashless Payments
The primary and most quick method of making drop-off charge payments is using your credit or debit card. This facilitates a secure payment processing and reduces the processing time as well. It also reduces the risk of loss and theft.
Online Payments
Embracing the modern technology, Heathrow Airport also offers a mobile application and online platform to manage and pay your payable drop-off charge. This allows the drivers and passengers to settle their charge using their smartphone or computers. You can also pay the charges in advance or immediately after the drop-off.
Payment Kiosks
Payment Kiosks are strategically places throughout the airport, within the direct approach of the drivers on the go. They have a highly user-friendly interface that allows to make payment within a very short time.
Contactless Payments
Contactless payment points are available near the terminal entrances, throughout the Heathrow Airport. They provide a highly efficient and quick payment method that require a simple tap of a contactless card or a smart device with payment capabilities.
Who is Exempted from Heathrow Drop-Off Charges?
There are a few exemptions where you don’t have to pay the drop-off charge, whether you are a driver or the passenger being dropped off. these exemptions are as follows:
Blue Badge Holders
If you are a registered Blue Badge holder, you can get a 100% waiver on your drop-off charge. This also applies if you are a blue badge holder passenger.
However, you have to apply for the waiver on the drop of day or before midnight the next day to avail it. you can apply for the waiver by providing the following information:
- Date of visit
- Flight number
- Vehicle registration number
- Email addressBlue Badge number
- front and back pictures of the Badge
Other Exempted Categories
There are other vehicle categories that are fully exempted from the drop-off charge. If your vehicle is registered under any of these categories:
- Roadside recovery vehicle
- Bus or coach
- Heathrow valet parking
- Two-wheeled motorbike
What Happens If I Don’t Pay Heathrow Drop-Off Charge in Time?
We have discussed that you have to pay the drop-off charge before midnight the next day. However, if you fail to do that, you will become subject to a substantial fine.
In this case, Heathrow Airport will send you a Parking Charge Notice of £80 which you can challenge through APCOA. Moreover, if you pay the fine within the 40 days of receiving the notice, you have to pay the half amount, i.e. £40.
Which are Free Drop Zones at Heathrow Airport?
Heathrow Airport also offers a free drop-off option at Heathrow Park & Ride (Long Stay Parking). However, this car parking is a long way from the terminal, and the passengers have to take the bus to reach them.
Moreover, this car park is free of charge for the first 30 minutes, and you have to pay a small sum of money if you decide to stay for extended periods.
