Ian Hugh Gordon Ashley, 54, a racing driver instructor, was charged under the Aviation and Security Act.
He is alleged to have been carrying a three-inch lock knife, a pair of pliers and a screwdriver.
At least one of the items is believed to have been hidden in his sock.
Mr Ashley, of Farndon, Newark, Nottinghamshire, was charged yesterday after being stopped at the airport.
A Heathrow airport spokeswoman said: "Security staff at Heathrow terminal 4's main search area discovered sharp items including a knife and pliers on a man attempting to fly out to Seattle yesterday.
"The items were concealed in his socks and were confiscated along with a screwdriver hidden in a spectacles case.
"Police arrested him at Heathrow and we believe he has since been charged under the Aviation Security Act."
Mr Ashley was being bailed to appear at Uxbridge magistrates court on February 1.
