Pay for Drop off at Heathrow
Let’s cut to the chase: dropping someone off at Heathrow now costs a flat £5 if you use the terminal forecourts. That’s the charge unless you stay under ten minutes, in which case you’re good. But the game changed in late 2026 when the airport scrapped the old free drop-off zones for good.
The logic is simple—reduce congestion, improve air quality, and keep traffic moving. The reality is a little more, shall we say, British. We’re now paying for the privilege of a quick hug and a “don’t forget your passport” moment.
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) is your new best friend. It captures your plate as you enter and exit, so there’s no ticket to lose. Just don’t dawdle for that extra selfie by the departures sign.
The system is remarkably efficient. You drive in, the camera clicks, and you’re on the clock. It’s like a very polite, very expensive countdown. And if you forget to pay? The penalty is a £20 fine (dropping to £10 if you pay within 14 days). That stings more than a flat white at Pret.