Is Heathrow in ULEZ? Everything You Need to Know

Essential Tips for Motorists Heading to Heathrow Airport After ULEZ Expansion

With the recent expansion of London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) across the entirety of Greater London from August 29th, travelers driving to Heathrow Airport need to stay informed. Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com), an award-winning airport parking provider, offers valuable advice for motorists navigating these new regulations.

Originally launched in April 2019 to curb air pollution in Central London, the ULEZ now imposes a daily charge of £12.50 for vehicles that fail to meet updated emissions standards within Greater London. Operating 24/7, except on Christmas Day, the ULEZ now includes most areas inside the M25, including Heathrow Airport.

How can drivers prepare? APH.com provides six key tips for those planning to drive in or around Heathrow:

1. Check Your Vehicle Compliance: Vehicles meeting ULEZ emissions standards are exempt from the charge. To verify if your vehicle is compliant, use the TFL online tool at https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/check-your-vehicle/. As a general guideline, petrol vehicles must meet Euro 4 standards, while diesel vehicles need to comply with Euro 6. If you own multiple vehicles, confirm which one is compliant and use it for your airport trip.
2. Understand the Daily Charge: The £12.50 fee covers a 24-hour period from midnight to midnight, meaning you’ll only be charged once per day. Travelers parking their cars at the airport will typically pay the charge twice – once when entering the zone and again when exiting.
3. Consider Off-Airport Parking Options: For those looking to avoid the ULEZ fee, booking an off-airport park-and-ride service outside the expanded zone is a smart move. For instance, Maple Park and Ride, available through APH.com, offers a secure facility just off M25 Junction 14, beyond the ULEZ boundary, along with complimentary transfers to Terminal 5.
4. Explore Alternative Airports: London Gatwick and London Stansted Airports are outside the expanded ULEZ and are not subject to these charges, offering an alternative for travelers looking to avoid the ULEZ fee. Ensure your route to these airports avoids driving through the ULEZ zone.
5. Account for Drop-Off and Pick-Up Fees: If you’re dropping off or picking up passengers at Heathrow, be aware of the £5 fee per terminal, in addition to the daily £12.50 ULEZ charge, which could total up to £35.
6. Pay the ULEZ Charge on Time: The ULEZ fee applies to all non-compliant vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, vans, minibuses, and trucks. Even if you’re driving a rented, borrowed, or shared vehicle, it’s your responsibility to ensure compliance. The charge can be paid up to 90 days in advance or a few days after entering the zone. Drivers can also register for AutoPay to streamline the payment process.

For more information on Airport Parking and Hotels (APH), visit www.aph.com or call 01342 859515. For additional details on the ULEZ in London, visit the official website.

About Airport Parking and Hotels (APH)

Founded in 1980, Airport Parking and Hotels (APH) is a leading airport parking provider, recognized as the ‘Best Airport Parking Company’ at the British Travel Awards 2022 for the twelfth consecutive year. In addition to managing car parks at Gatwick and Manchester Airports, APH offers parking services at all major UK airports, along with airport hotels, lounges, and additional services like car hire and travel insurance through trusted partners. Since 2005, APH has partnered with the World Land Trust to support rainforest conservation efforts by protecting vulnerable forest habitats.