Flying Internationally? Navigate Heathrow Airport, Step by Step
Planning to travel outside the U.S. this holiday (or anytime?) If you’re going to Europe, there’s a good chance you’ll fly into Heathrow International, which, while a convenient starting point for an international adventure, could be nicknamed “Harrowing Heathrow” for its overwhelming starting point to an international journey.
Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world because of its size and overall volume of passengers. Nevertheless, there are ways to ease the pain with some planning in advance and a few useful tips. Here’s how you can get through Heathrow Airport efficiently:
Before You Arrive
Heathrow has four active terminals: Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4 and Terminal 5. It is important to know which terminal your flight departs from or arrives at for a smooth experience. Check your airline ticket or Heathrow’s website for this information.
Decide on how you’ll get to the airport. Options include the Heathrow Express train – 15 minutes from Paddington Station, the London Underground’s Piccadilly Line, buses, taxis or private cars. Arrive early to account for traffic or delays.
Arrival at the Airport
Once inside the terminal, follow the signs to the check-in counters for your airline. Heathrow is well-signposted, but if you are unsure about anything, there are information desks to help. Wherever possible, check in online and print your boarding card or have it on your mobile device. This might save you time, and you could use the dedicated bag drop counters if you have luggage to check.
After checking in, depending on your situation, next go to the baggage drop and then the security. Be prepared by having your liquids in a clear plastic bag, removing electronics from your carry-on and wearing easily removable shoes.
Getting Through Security
Heathrow security can get very busy, and so organization is key. All liquids must be in containers of three ouncesl or less and fit inside one clear plastic bag. Laptops, tablets, and large electronics should be removed from your bag and placed in a tray separately.
Once you’ve cleared the metal detectors and your luggage has been scanned, you will be taken to the airside area of the terminal. Now, take some time to collect all your items and ensure that nothing has been left behind.
Overview of the Terminal
Heathrow has everything from restaurants and cafes to shops of virtually every type. Do some duty-free shopping or grab a meal. You can check the airport’s website or download their mobile app to find specific stores or eateries.
Pay attention to flight information screens for your gate assignment. Heathrow assigns gates relatively late, so be prepared. The gates may be quite a ways from the central terminal area, so take the time to get to yours.
If you have lounge access, Heathrow has several lounges where you can sit back, grab a bite to eat, and get on the Wi-Fi until your flight departs.
Boarding Your Flight
Heathrow’s signage will get you to your gate. Some gates involve a shuttle or long corridors of walking, so do pay attention to the time. Pay attention to boarding announcements for your flight. Heathrow generally boards passengers by group numbers printed on your boarding pass, so know your group and follow instructions.
Arriving at Heathrow
When arriving, follow the immigration signs; queue either as a UK/EEA or a non-EU passenger. Have in your hand your passport and possible documentation.
From immigration, go down to the arrival hall and then to collect luggage. Look on the boards for the correct carousel. The signs thereafter take you towards Customs and airport exit. Go through the ‘green channel’ if there’s nothing to declare.
Transiting Through Heathrow
If you are in transit, follow the purple “Flight Connections” signs. Heathrow’s terminals are connected by shuttle buses, so leave extra time if you need to change terminals.
Even if you’re just connecting, you might need to clear security again, so have your boarding card for your onward flight ready.
Lounges, shops, and restaurants are also available in Heathrow’s transit areas. Pay attention to flight information screens for news about your connecting flight.
Extra Tips
Download the Heathrow Airport App. The app offers real-time flight information, maps, and other useful tools that will help you around the airport.
Be Time Zone Aware: Heathrow works with GMT/BST; thus, if connecting from some other country, pay attention to time differences.
Accessibility: Should you need special assistance, Heathrow has special services available for passengers with reduced mobility. It is advisable to prebook this service with your airline.
-Dilan Gohill
