Last Updated: July 19 2021

From October 2021, London Heathrow will be introducing a charge for vehicles dropping off passengers at its terminal forecourts. A £5 charge per visit will apply to use the designated drop off zones located directly outside the airport terminals.

The Terminal Drop Off Charge will apply to all vehicles entering the forecourts of Heathrow’s terminals, although some exceptions will apply, such as blue badge holders and emergency vehicles (The Blue Badge Scheme helps disabled people to get to places they need to go). The forecourts are the easiest and quickest way to drop off passengers.

The initiative will help to reduce traffic congestion and emissions for the surrounding area as well as be a deterrent for a car-led recovery once more regular travel resumes post the Covid-19 national lockdown.

Car parks will remain available, and normal charges will apply. This will not impact passenger pick up, which should continue via the car parks, as picking up passengers is not permitted on the terminal forecourts.

The charge will also create a vital new revenue stream for the airport, providing further protection for local jobs as the negative economic impacts of the pandemic continue.

This new scheme will also encourage passengers to consider more sustainable transport options, including taking advantage of public transport services.

To ensure drivers do not drop off on the approach roads, the airport may also set up a “Red Route” system where stopping, loading or unloading activities will be penalized.

More Information on blue badge: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/839389/who-can-get-a-blue-badge-easy-read.pdf

News Source: https://centreforaviation.com/members/direct-news/terminal-drop-off-charge-568491