Are you aware that a significant portion of the parking charge notices (PCN) Zoom PCO Hire encounters stem from London airport drop-off charges?
In the past half-year alone, over 20% of the tickets we addressed originated from Heathrow and Gatwick.
To safeguard our valued community of PCO drivers from unexpected expenses, we’ve compiled a detailed list of London airports charging a drop-off fee and guidance on managing these charges to prevent those pesky parking tickets.
▶️ A quick heads-up from the Zoom PCO Hire team: We won’t be registering your PCO car at the airports. That’s on you. If you frequent airport routes, consider setting up an Auto Pay account to sidestep avoidable fines.
Heathrow Airport Drop Off Charge: The Basics
What is it?
London Heathrow Airport imposes a £5 fee for vehicles that offload passengers at the terminal forecourts, those areas directly before the terminal structures.
Fail to settle this fee by midnight the subsequent day? Expect a bitter £80 PCN surprise. However, paying within 14 days cuts the fine in half to £40.
How does it function?
This charge is monitored through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems. Operating ceaselessly, these systems are active every single day of the year. A key aspect to remember? No barriers exist, implying charges are levied the instant you access the designated zone.
Settling the Heathrow Drop Off Fee
You’ve got options: prepay, pay on the day, or settle by the following midnight. Do note that in-person payments at the airport or terminal zones aren’t feasible. The fees are payable exclusively online, through an automated phone line, or via autopay.
Any wallet-friendly alternatives?
Certainly! Zero-charge drop-offs are facilitated at the Long Stay terminal car parks. From there, passengers can hitch a complimentary transfer to the terminals.
▶️ Quick note from Zoom PCO Hire: Drop-off charges are levied per entry, not daily. Re-entering? That’s another fee.
Gatwick Airport: Drop Off Dynamics
What are the charges?
At London Gatwick Airport, a £5 fee (lasting 10 minutes) is applicable for vehicles offloading passengers at both North and South Terminals. Here’s the breakdown:
- £5 for the initial 10 minutes.
- £1 tacked on for every additional minute up to the 20-minute mark.
- Topping out at £25, the maximum duration is 30 minutes.
Missed the midnight payment deadline? Prepare for a £100 PCN, which can be lowered to £60 if sorted within 14 days.
Operational details
ANPR systems manage the drop-off fees, and they function round-the-clock throughout the year.
How to pay?
All payments must be processed by midnight following the passenger drop-off.
Cost-effective alternatives?
Absolutely! Use the Long Stay terminal car parks for complimentary drop-offs (two hours free parking). Complimentary shuttle services transport passengers to the terminals. Keep an eye out for signage pointing to ‘North Terminal long stay’ or ‘South Terminal long stay’.
Luton Airport, Stansted Airport & London City Airport
Due to space limitations, we’ve briefly summarized the remaining airports. However, Zoom PCO Hire’s comprehensive guide offers in-depth details on all.
- Luton: Charges of £5 for 10 minutes with free options at Mid Stay and Long Stay Car Parks.
- Stansted: Charges starting from £7, with anti-tailgating measures and free options in the Mid Stay car park.
- London City Airport: No drop-off fee, but lingering is frowned upon with active ANPR camera surveillance.
In the intricate world of London airport charges, Zoom PCO Hire is your trusted compass. Navigate safely, drive smartly, and keep those unexpected fines at bay. Always remember, knowledge is power… and savings!
