Heathrow Airport has announced an increase of 16% in its drop-off charge for the “kiss and fly” service starting January 1. The current fee of £6 will rise to £7, with a maximum stay of 10 minutes enforced to prevent parking violations and an £80 penalty.
The airport spokesperson stated that this adjustment aligns Heathrow’s Terminal drop-off charge with other major UK airports, aiming to manage congestion, promote public transport use, and maintain the forecourt’s intended purpose. Free drop-off and pick-up options are still available at all terminals in all Park & Ride car parks.
Guy Hobbs, a travel expert at Which?, expressed concerns over the new price hike and 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 10-minute limit, emphasizing the traffic flow benefits of the time restriction.
Heathrow defended the drop-off fee as part of its strategy to invest in sustainable transport options and encourage environmentally friendly travel choices. The airport’s website highlights the convenience of the drop-off areas outside each terminal, offering online or phone pre-payment options for multiple drop-offs with a payment deadline of midnight the following day.
Recent financial reports showed a 2% revenue increase at Heathrow in the first nine months of 2025, reaching £2.7 billion, driven by long-haul flights and premium services. While profits slightly decreased to £1.5 billion, the airport remains financially robust.
Unlike many UK airports, Heathrow does not allow passenger pick-ups in its drop-off area, directing such activities to its car parks with a minimal charge for 30 minutes. This fee adjustment follows a trend among UK airports, as highlighted by a report from the RAC in July, showing a rise in drop-off charges at numerous airports.
Although UK airports impose increasing drop-off fees, most European airports offer free drop-offs, according to the RAC. The study revealed price hikes at 11 of the top 20 airports in 2024, with the steepest rise at Belfast City, increasing to £4 for a 10-minute drop-off. London Luton and Manchester were identified as the most expensive airports on a cost-per-minute basis, charging £5 for five minutes.