Some changes have been made at London Heathrow Airport for this summer, including the rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage, with the latest drop-off charges also explained
If you’re travelling through Heathrow Airport this summer, it’s important to be aware of any restrictions or changes before your departure.
More than 23 million holidaymakers are expected to pass through Heathrow in July and August this year, with the UK’s biggest airport set to be busier than usual. Heathrow has also implemented significant changes to the way passengers travel through the airport, and it’s hoped to make journeys that much easier.
Therefore, it’s more crucial than ever to be fully prepared before getting to the airport to help avoid unnecessary holdups or additional pre-holiday stress. After all, no one wants to be caught out at the airport when they’re already in pre-holiday mode.
Drop off fees
If you’re planning to be dropped off at Heathrow Airport, a £7 charge applies every time a vehicle enters the terminal drop-off areas. Heathrow warned that “if you enter a drop-off area a second time, you will need to pay the charge again and every time after that.”
The drop-off areas are located outside each terminal, and no pick-ups or waiting vehicles are permitted there. When it comes to payment for the drop-off fees, Heathrow explained: “You can pay for a single drop-off, or pre-pay for multiple drop-offs online or by phone.
“If you are paying after using a drop-off zone, payment must be made by midnight on the next day. Please note, there is no option to pay at an airport ticket machine or in the terminal drop-off zones.” You can pay for a recent or future drop off through the Heathrow website.
For those who would prefer to dodge the drop-off fee, there is a free option. Heathrow explained: “Free drop-off is available at Heathrow’s Park & Ride car parks, previously known as Long Stay, where passengers can take a free bus transfer to the terminal.”
Scrapped 100ml liquid rule
One major change that came into force at Heathrow earlier this year was when they scrapped the 100ml liquid limit. All passengers travelling through the airport can now take up to 2 litres of liquids in their hand luggage through security.
Liquids no longer need to be placed in a clear, plastic bag, and can be left in the cabin bag when going through security. The airport advises that if you’re carrying a reusable metal or insulated bottle, you should empty it before going through security and that you can refill it afterwards.
In addition, travellers can also leave laptops, tablets and other large electronic devices in their cabin bag when going through security. You are permitted to take up to two pieces of hand baggage through security, but you must check your airline’s baggage allowance before travel, as hand luggage sizes and weight limits can vary.
It’s also important to note that other airports, including those in the UK and abroad, may have different security rules. So it’s vital to check the rules at the airport you’re travelling home.
For more information ahead of your holiday, visit the Heathrow Airport website.
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