Answers to the questions we’re asked most about booking a London airport transfer with Direct Airport: prices, flights, vehicles, payment and cancellations. Can’t find yours? Call 020 8450 4141 or message us on WhatsApp, 24 hours a day.
Booking and prices
How do airport transfers with Direct Airport work?
You book online or by phone and get a fixed price before you pay. On the day, a licensed driver collects you from your door or the airport and takes you straight to your destination. For airport pickups we track your flight, so the driver is there when you land.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 24 hours ahead, and 2–4 weeks ahead for school holidays and other busy periods. For a short-notice journey, call us on 020 8450 4141 and we’ll do our best to help.
What does the fixed price include?
Your quote is the price you pay for the journey. It includes tolls, the London Congestion Charge where it applies, airport drop-off charges and VAT. Airport pickups include 45 minutes of free waiting time after landing; longer waits are charged at £0.40 per minute (see our Terms).
Is a pre-booked transfer cheaper than Uber or Bolt?
Often, yes. Our prices are fixed when you book, so there is no surge pricing at busy times and no meter running in traffic. You also know the vehicle and price in advance.
Which airports do you cover?
We cover Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton and London City, with online booking for all five. For Southend Airport, call us on 020 8450 4141. See all airports.
Do you operate 24 hours a day?
Yes. We run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including bank holidays, so early-morning and late-night flights are covered.
Airport pickups and flights
Do you track my flight?
Yes. We track every airport pickup in real time and adjust the driver’s arrival to your actual landing time. There is no charge for flight delays. Please let us know if your flight number or date changes.
Where will my driver meet me at the airport?
You choose when you book. With Meet & Greet, your driver waits in the arrivals hall holding a name board. It’s included with Executive Saloon, Executive MPV and 8 Seater Minibus bookings, and can be added to Saloon, Estate and MPV bookings for an extra charge shown before you pay. With Express Pick-up, the driver calls you when you land and meets you at the airport’s pickup point.
What if my flight is delayed or I'm held up at baggage reclaim?
Flight delays are tracked and free, and every airport pickup includes 45 minutes of free waiting time after you land, to allow for passport control and bags. After that, waiting time is charged at £0.40 per minute (see our Terms).
Vehicles and luggage
Which vehicle should I choose?
| Vehicle | Passengers | Suitcases |
|---|---|---|
| Saloon | up to 4 | 2 |
| Estate | up to 4 | 3 |
| MPV | up to 6 | 4 |
| Executive Saloon | up to 4 | 2 |
| Executive MPV | up to 7 | 6 |
| 8 Seater Minibus | up to 8 | 8 |
Not sure which fits? Call us on 020 8450 4141 and we’ll recommend one.
What if I have more luggage than the vehicle holds?
Choose the next size up when you book, or call us and we’ll advise. If your luggage doesn’t fit on the day, you may need to upgrade to a larger vehicle at the higher fare. See our fleet for photos and details.
Do you provide child seats?
No, we don’t provide child seats. Licensed private hire vehicles are exempt from the child seat rules under UK law, but you’re welcome to bring your own seat for your child.
What is the difference between a minicab, a black cab and a pre-booked transfer?
A black cab can be hailed in the street and charges by the meter. Minicabs and pre-booked airport transfers are private hire vehicles: they must be booked in advance through a TfL-licensed operator, and you agree the price before you travel. Direct Airport is a licensed private hire operator, so your fare is fixed when you book.
Are your drivers licensed?
Yes. Every driver is licensed by Transport for London (TfL), DBS-checked and fully insured.
Payments, changes and cancellations
How do I pay?
You pay online when you book, by debit or credit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Payments are processed securely by Stripe.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes. Cancellation is free up to 4 hours before your pickup time. Cancellations within 4 hours, and no-shows, are charged in full. Refunds can take up to 21 days to reach your account. Full details are in our Terms.
How do I change my booking?
Call us on 020 8450 4141 to change a booking. Please don’t rely on booking notes for changes, so we can confirm them with you directly.
Do you offer business accounts?
Yes. Companies can set up a corporate account for staff and client travel. See corporate airport transfers or call us to get started.