London Heathrow Airport (IATA: LHR, ICAO: EGLL) is the main international airport serving London and the busiest airport in the United Kingdom by passenger traffic. Located 23 kilometres west of Central London, Heathrow is one of the world’s major aviation hubs and a key international gateway connecting the UK with over 180 global destinations. Heathrow is a central hub for international travel and a key part of the UK’s transport network.

The airport handles millions of passengers annually and offers various airlines and facilities. Its size and reach are vital for business and leisure travellers from the UK.

Understanding what Heathrow offers and how it operates can help passengers navigate their journey more smoothly. This article will explore the key aspects of the airport, including its layout, services, and how it connects London to the rest of the world. For more details about its location and importance, see London Heathrow Airport.

General Information

Location: Hillingdon, West London
Country: United Kingdom
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: LHR
ICAO Code: EGLL
Elevation: 83 feet (25 metres)
Coordinates: 51°28′39″N 0°27′41″W
Timezone: UTC+0 (GMT), UTC+1 (BST in summer)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 23 km (14 miles) west of Central London
Website: www.heathrow.com
Operator: Heathrow Airport Holdings
Services: Domestic and international flights, cargo, general aviation, VIP handling

Airport Details

Runways: 2
Runway Designations and Lengths:
09L/27R: 3,902 m (12,802 ft) – Asphalt
09R/27L: 3,660 m (12,008 ft) – Asphalt
Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
Runway Strength: Capable of handling all aircraft, including Code F (A380)
Fire Services: ARFF Category 10
Tower Frequency: Available
Ground Frequency: Available
Navigation Aids: ILS CAT III, VOR/DME, RNAV, GNSS
Customs and Immigration: Available 24/7 for all international flights
Aircraft Types: All aircraft, including regional, long-haul, and VIP jets
Terminals: Four active passenger terminals (T2, T3, T4, T5)
Cargo Facilities: Heathrow Cargo Centre with advanced handling capabilities
Fuel: JET A-1
FBOs: Signature Flight Support, Universal Aviation
Equipment: GPU, potable water, lavatory, de-icing
Ground Services: Full handling for passenger, cargo, and general aviation

Flight Operations

Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international general aviation
Permission Required: Yes, for charter and non-scheduled foreign aircraft
Slots: Required
Aircraft Types: All types, including Code F aircraft
Alternate Airports:
LGW: London Gatwick Airport
LTN: London Luton Airport
STN: London Stansted Airport

Contact Information

Enquiries: +44 844 335 1801
Email: feedback@heathrow.com
FBO Coordination: Signature LHR – lhr@signatureflight.com; Universal Aviation – london@universalaviation.aero

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: Passport, UK visa, or eTA (depending on nationality)
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew license/ID, General Declaration, UK visa if required
Transport Options: Heathrow Express train, London Underground (Piccadilly Line), taxis, buses, car rentals
Nearby Accommodation:
Near Airport: Sofitel London Heathrow, Hilton Garden Inn Heathrow, Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel
In London: The Savoy, Claridge’s, The Langham London
Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP); major international cards accepted

Airport Terminals – London Heathrow Airport

Heathrow has four passenger terminals: Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. Each terminal serves different airlines and destinations.

  • Terminal 2 is the “Queen’s Terminal” and mainly serves Star Alliance airlines.
  • Terminal 3 handles various international airlines.
  • Terminal 4 focuses on non-European and some European flights.
  • Terminal 5 is used exclusively by British Airways and Iberia.

These terminals offer services such as shops, lounges, and customs controls. A dedicated cargo terminal also supports freight operations.

History and Development

Heathrow started as a small airfield in the 1920s and gradually grew after World War II. Its major expansion began in the 1940s to meet increasing air travel demand.

The airport now has two parallel east-west runways. Its terminals and infrastructure have been updated multiple times over the past 75 years.

The development includes modernising terminals and adding new transport links such as the Heathrow Express train to central London. Heathrow continues to plan for future growth amid environmental and capacity challenges.

Ownership and Management

Heathrow Airport is owned by Heathrow Airport Holdings Limited, which manages its day-to-day operations, including security, runway maintenance, and passenger services.

The ownership is a mix of international investors, including pension funds and infrastructure firms. The management focuses on improving efficiency and expanding capacity while meeting government regulations.

It operates under strict safety and environmental standards, balancing commercial goals with public responsibilities. The company also works with airlines and government bodies to ensure smooth airport functioning.

For more detailed information, see Heathrow Airport Holdings Limited.

Transportation and Connectivity

London Heathrow Airport offers a range of transport methods for passengers arriving, departing, and transferring. Options include local and long-distance public transport, car access with parking facilities, and efficient ways to move between its terminals.

Public Transport Options

Heathrow is well connected by trains, buses, and coaches. The Heathrow Express train links the airport to London Paddington in about 20 minutes. The London Underground’s Piccadilly Line serves all terminals, offering a cheaper but slower connection.

Local buses run frequently around Heathrow, with some routes operating 24 hours daily. National coaches provide services to cities outside London.

Tickets are available for single journeys or return trips, and many services accept contactless payment.

Road Access and Parking

Heathrow is accessible by major roads including the M25 and M4 motorways. Drivers can follow clear signs to the terminals.

The airport offers several parking options: short-stay for quick visits, long-stay for extended trips, and valet parking services. Prices vary by duration and location.

Electric vehicle charging points are available in several car parks.

Transfers Between Terminals

Passengers from the same terminal can walk or use the free automated tram between terminals 2 and 3.

Heathrow provides a free shuttle bus service for travel between different terminals. This runs frequently and connects all terminals.

Travel time between terminals varies but generally takes less than 15 minutes. Signs guide passengers clearly to connection points and transport links. Transfers require following the “Flight Connections” signs for efficient passport control and boarding.

For more details, see Heathrow’s connecting flights and transport options.

Facilities and Passenger Services

London Heathrow offers various services designed to make travel smoother and more comfortable. Passengers can find places to relax, shop, and eat throughout the terminals, and access support tailored to different needs.

Lounges and Waiting Areas

Heathrow has numerous lounges across its terminals for passengers seeking quiet and comfort. Many lounges provide free Wi-Fi, refreshments, newspapers, and charging points.

Access to these lounges may be included with specific tickets, frequent flyer status, or available for purchase. Some offer business facilities like workstations and meeting rooms.

There are also quieter seating zones throughout the terminals, with power sockets and ergonomic chairs. Families benefit from dedicated children’s areas where younger travellers can play safely.

Shopping and Dining

Heathrow’s terminals feature many shops, including luxury brands, travel essentials, and duty-free stores. Shopping options range from clothing and electronics to souvenirs.

Dining choices suit many tastes and schedules. Passengers can find quick snacks, casual cafés, and full-service restaurants offering international cuisine.

Many outlets offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Some restaurants have outdoor seating or views over the runway, enhancing the dining experience.

Accessibility Features

The airport is equipped to assist passengers with mobility, hearing, or visual impairments. Wheelchair assistance can be arranged in advance or on arrival.

There are induction loops for hearing aid users and marked tactile routes for those with visual impairments. Accessible toilets and reserved parking spaces are located throughout the airport.

Staff trained in disability awareness are available to provide personalised help. Services like Meet & Assist can be booked for additional support from arrival to departure.

More detailed information on these services is available on Heathrow’s official airport facilities page.

Airlines and Destinations

London Heathrow serves many airlines and offers many destinations worldwide. Passengers can fly to over 200 locations, with flights operated by major global carriers and smaller airlines.

Major Airline Operators

Heathrow is a hub for British Airways, which operates the largest number of flights from the airport. Other significant airlines include Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Emirates, and Lufthansa. In total, more than 83 airlines operate from Heathrow.

These airlines provide extensive services across continents, focusing on long-haul international and important regional flights. Heathrow is also a base for several airlines that offer premium services and frequent connections.

Domestic and International Routes

Heathrow handles flights to over 214 destinations across 84 countries. It offers direct flights to cities in Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Key domestic destinations include Manchester, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. However, most international flights cover major cities like New York, Dubai, Hong Kong, and Paris.

Scheduled flights are available to 217 destinations with 77 airlines, making Heathrow the UK’s busiest airport for global travel options.

For a detailed list of routes and airlines, visit the page on flights from London Heathrow Airport.

Local Attractions

Buckingham Palace

The official residence of the British monarch, offering tours and the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Tower of London

A historic fortress and former royal palace housing the Crown Jewels.

British Museum

One of the world’s top museums, home to the Rosetta Stone and artefacts from ancient civilisations.

Westminster Abbey

A Gothic masterpiece and the site of royal weddings and coronations.

London Eye

A giant observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames offers panoramic city views.

Covent Garden

A vibrant district filled with shops, restaurants, street performers, and theatres.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit:
May–Sep: Warm weather, ideal for sightseeing and festivals
Dec: Festive season, though cooler with more crowds

Additional Notes:
Heathrow Airport offers extensive ground transportation options and premium facilities for transit passengers. Heathrow Express provides a quick link to central London, and all terminals feature luxury lounges, dining, and shopping. Fast Track and meet-and-greet services are available for premium and VIP travellers.

Frequently Asked Questions – London Heathrow Airport

Passengers travelling through Heathrow must know certain limits for bringing goods without paying extra tax. There are clear rules on liquids and baggage size.

Real-time flight information is essential. Different airlines operate from specific terminals. Travellers need to know how to get to central London and what to expect if they have a stopover. Security and check-in times affect how early passengers should arrive.

What are the duty-free allowances for passengers travelling through London Heathrow Airport?

Passengers can carry duty-free goods within specified limits. Liquids must fit in a bag no larger than 20cm by 20cm and be sealed. One liquid bag per passenger is allowed.

Limits apply to alcohol, tobacco, and other goods depending on the destination rules.

How can passengers access real-time updates on arrivals at London Heathrow Airport?

Heathrow provides real-time updates through its official app and website. These updates cover arrivals, departures, delays, and cancellations.

Information is also available on flight boards throughout the terminals.

Which terminal at Heathrow should I use for my airline?

Each airline operates from a specific terminal. Passengers should check Heathrow’s terminal guide before travel to confirm where to go.

This helps avoid confusion and saves time on arrival.

What are the transportation options from Heathrow to Central London?

Heathrow is connected to central London by the Heathrow Express train, the London Underground (Piccadilly Line), buses, and taxis.

Travel time and cost vary by option, with the Heathrow Express being the fastest.

What facilities are available for passengers with a layover at Heathrow?

Layover passengers can use lounges, shops, restaurants, and rest zones. Some terminals offer quiet areas and charging stations.

There are also hotels nearby if passengers have a longer wait.

What are the security and check-in times to plan for at London Heathrow Airport?

Passengers should arrive at least 3 hours before international flights. Security checks can take time during busy periods.

Online check-in is recommended to reduce waiting times at the airport.

For more detailed travel information, visit Heathrow’s customer support and FAQ page.