Heathrow Airport Parking for Disabled: A Clear, Practical Guide

The best parking options (at a glance)

1) Short Stay (closest to terminals)

• Multi-storey car parks directly linked to T2, T3, T4, T5.
• Blue Badge bays near lifts and terminal bridges.
• Ideal for pick-ups, drop-offs, hospital/clinic runs, or very short trips.
• Pay on exit; keep your ticket and Blue Badge visible when parked (per signage).

2) Meet & Greet (no shuttle, minimal walking)

• Drive to the signed meet point; a vetted driver parks your car off-site.
• Zero bus transfers, you walk straight to the terminal.
• Great if steps, long walks, or carrying oxygen/medical equipment is a concern.
• Check how the provider handles the airport forecourt levy or Short Stay barrier fees.

3) Long Stay / Park & Ride (budget-friendly)

• Good value for longer trips; look for accessible shuttles (low floors/ramps) and priority seating.
• Confirm operating hours match your flight times and whether you must call to dispatch late at night.

What to arrange before you book

• Blue Badge use: If you’ll park in Short Stay, check the bay location, time limits, and signage rules. Always display the badge when required.
• Assistance (PRM) at the airport: Request special assistance via your airline at least 48 hours before flying (earlier is better). You’ll get help from the car park/terminal to the gate.
• Shuttle accessibility: For Park & Ride, confirm ramp/low-floor buses, space for folded wheelchairs/rollators, and whether a carer can board first.
• Vehicle height/EV needs: Multi-storeys have height limits; EV bays are limited, pre-book an EV add-on if you need a charge and bring a Type 2 cable.
• Product flexibility: If plans might change (medical appointments, treatment schedules), choose a Flexible tariff or add Cancellation Cover.

On the day: step-by-step

1. Arrive with a buffer. Give yourself extra time for parking, lifts, or assistance rendezvous.
2. Follow the signs. Heathrow wayfinding is strong; for Short Stay, choose the car park for your terminal (T2–T5).
3. Use accessible routes. Lifts/escalators are close to Blue Badge bays; assistance points are signposted inside the car park and terminal.
4. Keep essentials handy. Medication, mobility aids, sunflower lanyard (if you use one), and your booking confirmation/phone numbers.

Charges & fees (know before you go)

• Forecourt levy: If your Meet & Greet uses the terminal forecourt, an airport-imposed access fee may apply per visit (set by the airport, not by us or the operator). Some products include it; others bill it separately.
• Short Stay tariffs: Charged by time on exit; Blue Badge concessions, if any, are clearly stated on car-park signage.
• Overstays/amendments: Returning later than booked may incur a fee; Flexible products reduce risk if your plans are uncertain.

Tip: Your booking confirmation will spell out where to meet, who to call, and how any levy/barrier charges are handled. Save it offline.

Frequently asked questions

Is Meet & Greet better for disabled travellers?
Often, yes, no shuttle and the shortest walk. Still confirm the meet location (forecourt vs Short Stay) and how fees are handled.

Do Park & Ride shuttles take wheelchairs?
Many operate low-floor buses and can accommodate folded wheelchairs; check ramp availability and boarding assistance with your chosen provider.

Can I be dropped close and someone else park?
Yes, combining a terminal drop with Short Stay parking for the driver is common. Coordinate by phone once the passenger is safely inside.

What if I need oxygen or medical equipment?
Inform your airline and assistance provider in advance; carry documentation and allow extra time at security.

Ready to compare accessible options?

• Browse Heathrow parking (Meet & Greet, Park & Ride):
  Compare The Airport Parking, search live deals and filter for the features you need.
• Want help shortlisting? Tell us your terminal, dates, mobility needs, and if you prefer no shuttle, and we’ll point you to the most suitable products.

Bottom line: For the closest access and least walking, pick Short Stay or a reputable Meet & Greet. If you’re maximising value, choose an accessible Park & Ride with confirmed shuttle support. Plan a little, book the right product, and Heathrow can be as straightforward as any modern hub.