Heathrow Airport: 10 Important Changes to Heathrow’s Parking Rules You Need to Know

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Heathrow Airport: 10 Important Changes to Heathrow’s Parking Rules You Need to Know

If you’re planning to visit Heathrow Airport or just dropping someone off, some pretty important changes have come into effect concerning parking rules. Whether it’s increased fees or new schemes to make things smoother, knowing these updates will definitely make your trip more manageable. Let’s walk through the 10 significant changes that you need to be aware of for a hassle-free experience at Heathrow.

1. Drop-Off Fees Have Increased

Heads up for anyone dropping off friends or family at Heathrow Airport—the fee has gone up from £5 to £6. This extra pound might not seem like much, but it can add up if you’re coming by often. The increase is part of the airport’s efforts to manage traffic and pollution, encouraging people to use public transport or other means of getting to the airport.

2. Online Payment is Required

Gone are the days when you could just drop someone off and not worry about the parking fee until later. Now, Heathrow requires you to pay the drop-off fee online, by phone, or via autopay latest by midnight the following day. If you forget, you could end up with a fine, so it’s best to handle it soon after your drop-off.

3. Penalty for Non-Payment

If paying online slipped your mind and you missed the deadline, Heathrow will issue an £80 Parking Charge Notice. However, if you can pay this within 14 days, the fee reduces to £40. It’s definitely worth marking your calendar or setting a reminder to avoid this extra cost.

4. ULEZ Charges Also Apply

Heathrow’s drop-off zones are part of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone. If your vehicle doesn’t meet the emission standards, be prepared to pay an additional £12.50 on top of the drop-off fee. This charge supports the city’s efforts to reduce pollution, making it crucial for drivers to check their vehicle’s compliance before heading out.

5. New Approved Meet & Greet Scheme

To protect you from dodgy parking operators, Heathrow has set up the Approved Meet and Greet Parking Operator Scheme, or AM-GO. This initiative helps ensure that the service you book is reliable and your car is in safe hands.

6. Look for the AM-GO Logo

When choosing a meet-and-greet service, make sure to check for the AM-GO logo. This logo means the operator is approved and meets all insurance and safety standards set by Heathrow. This small check can save you a lot of stress.

7. Long Stay Parking is Now ‘Heathrow Park & Ride’

Heathrow has renamed its Long Stay Parking to “Heathrow Park & Ride.” Although the name has changed, the service remains the same. This is still a great option if you’re going on a longer trip and need safe parking for your car.

8. Free Parking for Short Pick-Ups

If you’re just picking someone up quickly, Heathrow Park & Ride offers 30 minutes of free parking. This is a great way to avoid the drop-off fee and still ensure you have enough time to greet your friends or family.

9. Shuttle Buses Run Every 10-15 Minutes

Once you park at Heathrow Park & Ride, you won’t have to wait long for a shuttle bus. They run every 10 to 15 minutes and will take you right to your terminal. It’s a quick and efficient way to get around the airport.

10. More Changes Could Come in 2025

Heathrow is always looking at ways to improve. This means there could be more changes to parking rules and fees by 2025. Keeping yourself updated can help you plan better and avoid any surprises on your next trip to or from the airport.