Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, with millions of passengers passing through its doors every year. For first-time travellers, navigating the airport can be overwhelming, with five terminals, hundreds of shops and restaurants, and a variety of transportation options.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Heathrow Airport, including tips for getting around, things to do, and essential information for a stress-free travel experience.
One of the first things travellers should know about Heathrow Airport is that it is located just 14 miles from central London, making it a convenient hub for international travel.
With five terminals, each with its own unique personality and amenities, there is something for everyone at Heathrow. From luxury shopping and dining to family-friendly play areas and quiet lounges, there is no shortage of things to do and see at this bustling airport.
Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make the most of your time at Heathrow Airport.
From transportation options to terminal maps and insider tips, you’ll have everything you need to navigate this busy airport with ease. So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on your next adventure from Heathrow Airport.
Understanding Heathrow Airport
Heathrow Airport is London’s largest and busiest airport, acting as an international travel hub for passengers from all over the world. The airport first opened in 1946 and has since undergone numerous expansions and renovations.
History
Heathrow Airport was initially built as a military airfield during World War II. After the war, the British government recognized the need for a major international airport and began developing the site for civilian use.
The airport officially opened to commercial flights in 1946, and since then, it has grown to become one of the busiest airports in the world.
Terminals
Heathrow Airport features five terminals, each with its own unique layout and facilities. The terminals are designated as Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4, Terminal 5, and Terminal 6 (currently under construction).
Each terminal caters to different airlines and destinations, so it’s essential to know which terminal you need to go to before arriving at the airport. The airport’s official website provides a terminal finder tool that can help you find your terminal based on your airline and flight number.
Here is a breakdown of the terminals and the airlines that operate from each one:
| Terminal | Airlines |
|---|---|
| Terminal 2 | Aegean Airlines, Aer Lingus, Eurowings, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines |
| Terminal 3 | Delta Air Lines, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic |
| Terminal 4 | Air France, KLM, Korean Air, Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways |
| Terminal 5 | British Airways, Iberia, American Airlines |
| Terminal 6 | N/A (currently under construction) |
It’s worth noting that Terminal 1 was closed in 2015 and has since been demolished to make way for the expansion of Terminal 2.
Overall, understanding the history and layout of Heathrow Airport can help travelers navigate the airport more efficiently and make their travel experience smoother.
Navigating Through Heathrow Airport
Navigating through a busy airport like Heathrow can be daunting, especially for first-time travellers. However, with a little bit of planning and preparation, it can be a breeze. Here are some tips to help you navigate through Heathrow Airport.
Transport Links
Heathrow Airport is well-connected to the city of London and the surrounding areas. The airport has its own train station, Heathrow Express, which provides a fast and direct link to London Paddington.
The journey takes just 15 minutes, and trains run every 15 minutes. Alternatively, travellers can take the London Underground, which has stations at all Heathrow terminals. The Piccadilly line provides a direct link to central London and beyond.
In addition to trains and the underground, Heathrow Airport is also well-served by buses and coaches. National Express and other coach companies operate services to and from Heathrow, providing links to destinations across the UK.
Maps and Signage
Heathrow Airport is a large and busy airport, but it is well-signposted, with clear directions to all terminals and facilities. Travellers can pick up a free map at one of the information desks, or download the Heathrow app, which provides real-time navigation and turn-by-turn directions to anywhere in the airport.
The airport is divided into four terminals, each with its own facilities and services. Terminal 5 is the newest and largest terminal, with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and lounges. Terminal 2 is the main terminal for Star Alliance airlines, while Terminal 3 is used by Oneworld and other airlines. Terminal 4 is used by a variety of airlines, including SkyTeam members.
Travellers should allow plenty of time to navigate through the airport, especially during peak travel periods. It is recommended that travellers arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure for domestic and European flights, and three hours before departure for all other flights. This will allow plenty of time to check in, clear security, and navigate through the airport.
Airport Facilities
Heathrow Airport has a range of facilities to cater to the needs of travelers. Here are some of the essential facilities that travelers should be aware of:
Restaurants and Shops
Heathrow Airport has a wide variety of restaurants and shops to cater to different tastes and preferences. There are over 100 restaurants and cafes located in all terminals, serving everything from fast food to fine dining.
Some of the popular restaurants include Gordon Ramsay Plane Food, Wagamama, and Caviar House & Prunier Seafood Bar.
In addition to restaurants, Heathrow Airport has a variety of shops selling everything from luxury fashion to souvenirs. Some of the popular shops include Harrods, Burberry, and World Duty-Free.
There are also convenience stores and newsagents located throughout the airport for travelers who need to pick up some last-minute essentials.
Lounges
Heathrow Airport has several lounges available for travelers who want to relax and unwind before their flight. Some of the lounges are available for all passengers, while others are exclusive to certain airlines or loyalty programs.
The lounges offer a range of facilities, including comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, showers, and workstations.
Some of the popular lounges at Heathrow Airport include the Plaza Premium Lounge, the No1 Lounge, and the British Airways Galleries Lounge.
Wifi and Charging Stations
Heathrow Airport offers free wifi throughout all terminals. Travelers can connect to the airport’s wifi network by selecting “Heathrow Wi-Fi” and following the prompts to register.
There are also charging stations located throughout the airport, allowing travelers to charge their devices before their flight.
In addition to charging stations, there are also workstations located throughout the airport that offer access to power outlets and USB ports. These workstations are ideal for travelers who need to catch up on work or charge their devices before their flight.
Overall, Heathrow Airport has a range of facilities to cater to the needs of travelers. From restaurants and shops to lounges and charging stations, travelers can find everything they need to make their airport experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Security and Customs
Security Procedures
Heathrow airport has strict security procedures in place to ensure the safety of all passengers. Before entering the security area, passengers must present their boarding pass and passport.
All passengers are required to remove their shoes and place them in the tray provided for scanning. Jackets and coats must also be removed and placed in a separate tray.
In addition to removing footwear and outerwear, passengers must also remove any electronics larger than a mobile phone from their hand luggage and place them in a separate tray.
Liquids must be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag and presented separately for scanning. The maximum amount of liquid allowed in each container is 100ml and the total amount of liquid must not exceed 1 litre.
Passengers are also subject to a body scan or pat-down search before being allowed to proceed to their gate. It is important for passengers to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to allow for these security procedures.
Customs Information
When arriving at Heathrow airport, passengers must pass through customs before exiting the airport. Customs officers may ask passengers questions about the purpose of their trip and may search their luggage.
It is important for passengers to declare any items that they are bringing into the country that exceed the duty-free allowance.
As of 1 January 2021, the UK has left the European Union and there have been some changes to the customs process. The blue channel, which was previously used for arrivals from EEA countries, has been closed. Passengers arriving from the EU must now use the same channel as passengers arriving from non-EU countries.
Passengers should also be aware of the restrictions on items that can be brought into the UK. Some items, such as firearms and illegal drugs, are strictly prohibited.
Other items, such as food and plants, may be subject to restrictions and may require a permit or inspection before being allowed into the country. It is important for passengers to familiarise themselves with these restrictions before travelling to avoid any issues at customs.
Special Assistance
Heathrow Airport provides special assistance for passengers who require additional support during their travels. This section will cover the different kinds of special assistance available at Heathrow Airport.
Disability Support
Heathrow Airport offers a range of services for passengers with disabilities. These services include:
- Requesting assistance: Passengers can book assistance through their airline’s website or by contacting the airport directly. Heathrow Airport cannot book additional assistance.
- Mobility assistance: Wheelchairs and other mobility equipment are available to passengers who require them. Passengers should contact their airline in advance to arrange for this service.
- Hidden disabilities: Heathrow Airport has introduced the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program to help passengers with hidden disabilities. Passengers can collect a sunflower lanyard at one of the airport’s assistance desks to indicate that they require additional support during their travels.
Passengers with disabilities can call +44 344 335 1000 for general advice and information regarding the special assistance facilities at Heathrow Airport. The Heathrow minicom service is also available for passengers who are deaf or hard of hearing on 020 8745 7950.
Family Assistance
Heathrow Airport provides assistance for families with young children. These services include:
- Pushchair hire: Passengers can hire pushchairs at the airport for a fee.
- Family facilities: Heathrow Airport has family rooms with baby changing facilities and play areas.
- Children’s meals: Children’s meals are available at most restaurants and cafes at the airport.
Passengers can contact their airline in advance to arrange for family assistance services.
Emergency Procedures
Heathrow Airport has a comprehensive emergency response plan in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers, staff, and visitors. In case of an emergency, passengers are advised to follow the instructions of airport staff and emergency services personnel.
Medical Emergencies
If a passenger requires medical assistance, they can dial 222 from any internal phone to request an ambulance. There are also Boots pharmacies located in every terminal where passengers can purchase over-the-counter medication or seek advice from a pharmacist.
Travel Insurance
Passengers are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance before their journey. Travel insurance covers unexpected circumstances such as illness, injury, lost or stolen luggage, cancelled flights, or damaged electronics.
It also provides access to first-rate assistance services, helping passengers to find the best hospital on foreign shores, fill out any claims, and anything else they may require.
Operational Safety Instructions
It is the responsibility of all employers to ensure that relevant Operational Safety Instructions (OSIs) are brought to the attention of their staff. However, individuals remain responsible for their own actions and those who are in any doubt should consult their supervisor or manager.
UK Border Control
Passengers entering the UK are subject to UK Border Control regulations. They do not need to take any Coronavirus (COVID-19) tests or fill in a passenger locator form.
This applies whether they are fully vaccinated or not. Passengers should be aware of what they can bring with them and what is prohibited. The UK Government website provides a comprehensive air travel checklist for travel from the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, with millions of passengers passing through its terminals every year. As such, it’s natural that travelers may have some questions about the airport and their travel experience.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Heathrow Airport:
What should I do if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, your first point of contact should be your airline. They will be able to provide you with information about your options, including rebooking onto another flight or receiving a refund.
You may also be entitled to compensation, depending on the circumstances of the delay or cancellation.
What should I do if my bags are missing?
If your bags are missing, you should report this to your airline’s baggage handling desk as soon as possible. They will be able to help you track down your bags and arrange for them to be delivered to you if they are found. You may also be entitled to compensation if your bags are lost or delayed.
How do I change my car park booking?
If you need to change your car park booking, you should contact the company you booked with directly. They will be able to advise you on their policy for changes and cancellations, and help you make any necessary changes to your booking.
Do I need to pay to drop off passengers at Heathrow Airport?
Yes, there is a charge for dropping off passengers at Heathrow Airport. The charge varies depending on the length of stay, and there are different zones for different terminals. You can find more information about drop-off charges on the Heathrow Airport website.
What are the COVID-19 requirements for travel?
The requirements for travel during the COVID-19 pandemic are constantly changing, so it’s important to check the latest guidance before you travel. You can find up-to-date information about the COVID-19 requirements for travel on the Heathrow Airport website. It’s also a good idea to check the guidance from your airline and any other relevant authorities before you travel.