Heathrow Airport is set to increase its drop-off charge for the “kiss and fly” service by 16% starting January 1. The current fee of £6 will rise to £7, with a maximum stay of 10 minutes enforced to avoid incurring an £80 parking charge notice.
A spokesperson for the airport mentioned that the adjustment aligns Heathrow’s Terminal drop-off charge with other major UK airports, aiming to enhance sustainability. This measure is intended to alleviate congestion, promote public transport utilization, and ensure the forecourts are used efficiently. Free drop-off and pick-up alternatives are still accessible at all terminals via the Park & Ride car parks.
Travel expert Guy Hobbs from consumer group Which? expressed concerns about the heightened price and time restrictions imposed by Heathrow, adding that long-stay car parks offer free drop-offs at various UK airports.
Heathrow noted that the vast majority of passengers complete their drop-offs within the allotted 10-minute timeframe, which has been implemented to streamline traffic flow and reduce 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 quick and easy passenger drop-off options. Payment for drop-off services can be made online or by phone, with the fee required to be settled by midnight the following day.
Recent financial results revealed a 2% increase in Heathrow’s revenues to £2.7 billion in the first nine months of 2025, supported by robust long-haul flying and enhanced premium services uptake. Despite a slight profit decrease of 0.2%, profits remained substantial at £1.5 billion.
In contrast to many UK airports, Heathrow’s drop-off area is not designated for passenger pick-ups, which are directed to the airport’s car parks with a minimal charge for 30 minutes.
This price adjustment follows a report by the RAC in July, showing that over half of the busiest UK airports raised their drop-off charges this year. While UK airports impose higher fees, most European airports offer free drop-off services, as highlighted by the RAC.
Research findings indicated that 11 out of the top 20 airports, based on 2024 passenger numbers, increased their drop-off charges compared to the previous year. The steepest rise was observed at Belfast City Airport, where fees surged by a third to £4 for a 10-minute stop. London Luton and Manchester airports were noted as the most expensive on a cost-per-minute basis, charging £5 for a five-minute drop-off.