Heathrow Airport will increase its drop-off charge for the “kiss and fly” service by 16% starting January 1st. The current £6 fee will rise to £7, with a maximum 10-minute stay limit to avoid an £80 parking charge notice.

A spokesperson for the airport stated that this adjustment aligns Heathrow’s drop-off charge with other major UK airports and supports sustainability efforts by reducing congestion and promoting public transport use. Free drop-off and pick-up options are available at all terminals in the Park & Ride car parks.

Travel expert Guy Hobbs from consumer group Which? criticized the 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 drop-offs within the allotted time, emphasizing the 10-minute limit to manage traffic flow and congestion.

The airport clarified that the drop-off fee contributes to investments in eco-friendly transport options and encourages passengers to consider lower environmental impact travel choices.

Heathrow’s website highlights the convenience of drop-off areas outside each terminal and offers payment options for single or multiple drop-offs online or by phone, with payments due by midnight the next day.

Recent financial data revealed a 2% revenue increase to £2.7 billion in the first nine months of 2025 for Heathrow, driven by long-haul flights and premium services. Profits slightly decreased to £1.5 billion.

In contrast to other UK airports, Heathrow’s drop-off area does not allow passenger pick-ups, directing them to car parks with minimal charges for 30 minutes.

The rise in drop-off charges at Heathrow follows a trend among UK airports, as highlighted in a July report by the RAC, showing increased fees for brief drop-offs at many airports this year.

While UK airports escalate drop-off charges, most European airports offer free drop-off services, according to the RAC. The study found price hikes at 11 of the top 20 airports by passenger numbers in 2024, with Belfast City experiencing a 33% increase in charges to £4 for 10 minutes.

The RAC noted London Luton and Manchester as the most expensive airports on a cost-per-minute basis, charging £5 for five minutes of drop-off time.