London airport private hire guide

Airport private hire journeys are easy to price badly when key information is missing. A clear flight number, passenger count, luggage information and pickup plan help operators return more meaningful prices.

Give the right airport and terminal

London is served by several airports and multiple terminals. Use the full airport name and terminal where known. For Heathrow in particular, the difference between terminals matters for collection arrangements.

Include the flight number for airport pickups

A flight number gives the selected operator useful context around scheduled arrival and possible delay. It does not replace agreeing a pickup arrangement, but it can help the operator monitor the journey and plan appropriately.

Tell the operator how much luggage you have

Airport passengers often underestimate luggage space. A vehicle that seats four people may not comfortably carry four people plus four large cases. Use XL when the group or luggage load needs additional capacity.

Meet-and-greet or pickup point?

Airport collection can mean different things. Some customers want a driver waiting inside arrivals; others are happy to walk to a designated pickup area. These arrangements can affect parking, waiting time and price, so describe what you need.

Build in sensible time

For departures, consider traffic, check-in and security requirements rather than working backwards from flight time too aggressively. Your airline or airport should be your source for recommended arrival time.

Compare the whole offer

For a long airport journey, a small fare difference may matter less than vehicle suitability, operator reviews or a clear pickup plan. Cab Exchange lets you compare the operator as well as the price.

Booking confirmation

After selecting an operator, look for that operator's separate booking confirmation. TfL requires London private hire operators to provide booking confirmation before the journey starts with specified driver and vehicle information.

Official sources and further reading

• Transport for London — Taxi & private hire
• TfL — Guide to taxis and private hire
• TfL — Private hire operator licensing
• TfL — Passengers and accessibility

Guides are general information, not legal advice. Licensing rules and operator requirements can change; check TfL for the current position.