Heathrow to Increase Drop-Off Charge to £7 in 2026

The fee to drop passengers off at a Heathrow terminal will rise to £7 from January 1, 2026. This fee applies to every vehicle entering the terminal forecourts. You can pay the charge online or by automated telephone at 0330 008 5600 by midnight the following day.

Heathrow is also enforcing a 10-minute limit on vehicles in the terminals. Overstaying this limit or failing to pay the charge will trigger an £80 PCN, reduced to £40 if paid within 14 days.

Free Parking Alternatives

The airport offers free parking at Heathrow’s Park & Ride car parks (formerly Long Stay car parks). Passengers can take a free bus transfer from these lots to their terminal. However, using Park & Ride for 30+ minutes incurs charges.

Staying between 30 minutes and 1 hour and 59 minutes will cost £9.40. A stay lasting 24 hours or more has variable rates. For instance, off-peak dates will cost £40.80 for the first 24 hours. Peak dates will cost £46.80 for the same period.

The parking charge for every extra day will be £32.90 (regular dates) and £37.40 (peak dates).

Effect on PCO Drivers

Private hire drivers should plan their airport trips carefully now. They must consider the new £7 terminal charge and time limit before accepting rides. The Park & Ride remains a free alternative, but timing is crucial here. Always check the Heathrow website for updates.