Heathrow Airport Issues Critical Alert Over Terminal Drop-Off Charges
London Heathrow Airport has issued an urgent reminder to all travelers about mandatory fees that apply when using specific sections of the airport. The warning comes as many visitors remain unaware of the financial penalties associated with non-compliance.
The £7 Drop-Off Charge and Potential £80 Fines
Heathrow's terminal drop-off charge applies to all vehicles dropping off passengers directly on the terminal forecourts. This fee represents the fastest and most convenient method for delivering travelers to their departure points, but it comes with strict payment requirements.
Drivers who fail to pay the £7 charge face substantial penalties: an £80 fine that reduces to £40 if settled within fourteen days. The airport has emphasized that there are no barriers in drop-off zones, meaning charges are incurred automatically upon entry.
Payment must be completed by midnight on the day following use of a drop-off zone. Heathrow offers multiple payment options, including single drop-off purchases or advance bookings for multiple drop-offs through their website or by phone.
Important Exceptions and Alternative Options
Blue badge holders qualify for a complete 100% discount on the drop-off charge, while other travelers have alternative options:
- Free pick-up and drop-off remains available in designated Park and Ride car parks
- Short-stay parking should be used for passenger pick-up operations
- No waiting or picking up is permitted in drop-off areas
- Unattended vehicles may be towed at the owner's expense
Heathrow has clarified that payment cannot be made at airport ticket machines or within terminal drop-off zones themselves. Prepaid funds remain valid for twelve months from purchase date, after which any unused balance expires.
Heathrow's Two-Bag Security Policy
Separately, Heathrow enforces a strict 'two-bag rule' at security checkpoints designed to reduce queuing times and improve passenger flow. This policy limits travelers to just two pieces of hand luggage through screening areas.
The airport specifies: "Only two items of hand baggage may be taken through security control, and they must be no larger than 56cm x 45cm x 25cm. Handbags and laptop bags count toward this two-item limit."
Items exceeding these dimensions must be checked as hold luggage. Heathrow provides size gauges at check-in areas to help passengers verify compliance before reaching security.
Electronic Device Regulations and Prohibited Items
Travelers must also be aware of specific regulations concerning electronic devices in hand luggage. While individual airlines may impose additional restrictions, the UK Government permits certain items in both hand and checked baggage:
- Hairdryers and straighteners
- Travel irons and electric shavers
- Most cameras and mobile phones
- Laptops and tablet devices
- MP3 players and similar electronics
E-cigarettes must be stored exclusively in hand luggage rather than checked bags. During security screening, all electronic devices should be placed in separate trays for inspection, allowing security personnel to verify that no prohibited items are concealed within them.
Passengers with questions about the drop-off charge or seeking refunds can contact Heathrow customer services via email at refunds.heathrowdropoff@apcoa.com, through the webchat service, or by calling 0333 200 7459.
