London Heathrow Airport (LHR) Guide: Terminal Layout, Airlines, Connections & Transportation
Your complete guide to navigating Heathrow Airport, finding your terminal, connecting between flights, and traveling to central London.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is one of the world's busiest international aviation hubs and the primary gateway to London for millions of international travelers. Located west of central London in the borough of Hillingdon, Heathrow serves hundreds of destinations and connects passengers traveling throughout Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond.
Whether you're arriving from New York, connecting to another European destination, or beginning a London vacation, understanding Heathrow Airport's terminal layout, security procedures, and transportation options can make your journey much easier.
This LUXY travel guide covers everything you need to know about navigating London Heathrow Airport.
Heathrow Airport Layout: How Many Terminals Are at LHR?
London Heathrow Airport has four active passenger terminals: Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. Terminal 1 permanently closed in 2015.
Terminals 2 and 3 are located near each other in Heathrow's central terminal area. Terminal 4 is situated to the south, while Terminal 5 is located farther west.
Although Heathrow covers a large area, passengers can travel between terminals using pedestrian connections, airport shuttle buses, and free inter-terminal public transport services.
Heathrow Airport terminals at a glance
| Terminal | Major airlines | Key information |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 2 | United Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada, Singapore Airlines | Main Star Alliance terminal |
| Terminal 3 | Virgin Atlantic, Delta, American Airlines, Emirates, Qantas | Major international and long-haul hub |
| Terminal 4 | Air France, KLM, Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, Korean Air | International departures and arrivals |
| Terminal 5 | British Airways, Iberia | British Airways' primary Heathrow hub |
Important: British Airways operates flights from both Terminal 3 and Terminal 5. Always verify your specific flight using the official Heathrow terminal finder.
Heathrow Terminal 2: The Queen's Terminal
Heathrow Terminal 2, officially known as The Queen's Terminal, is the airport's principal hub for Star Alliance airlines.
Which airlines use Heathrow Terminal 2?
Major carriers include United Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, Turkish Airlines, and several other international airlines.
Terminal 2 includes a main terminal building and satellite gate facilities, including Terminal 2B.
What to expect at Terminal 2
Travelers have access to international check-in facilities, restaurants, retail stores, currency exchange services, and airline lounges.
Premium passengers may have access to the United Club, Lufthansa lounges, or other eligible airline facilities.
Terminal 2 is conveniently connected to Heathrow Central station and Terminal 3 through pedestrian walkways.
Traveler tip: If your departure gate is in the Terminal 2B satellite building, account for additional walking time after clearing security.
Heathrow Terminal 3: Virgin Atlantic, Delta, American Airlines & More
Heathrow Terminal 3 is a major international terminal and a particularly important gateway for travelers arriving from the United States.
Which airlines operate from Heathrow Terminal 3?
Major airlines include:
- Virgin Atlantic
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- Emirates
- Qantas
- Cathay Pacific
- Japan Airlines
- Selected British Airways flights
For travelers flying between the United States and London, Terminal 3 is especially important because it handles numerous transatlantic flights.
Heathrow Terminal 3 arrival information
Upon arrival, passengers entering the United Kingdom generally proceed through passport control, baggage reclaim, and customs before exiting into the arrivals hall.
Signs direct passengers toward transportation, taxi services, parking areas, and Heathrow Central station.
Terminal 3 is within walking distance of Terminal 2 through the central terminal area's underground pedestrian routes.
Traveler tip: If you are flying Delta or Virgin Atlantic and connecting to another airline, verify whether your next flight departs from the same terminal.
Heathrow Terminal 4: International Airlines & Connections
Heathrow Terminal 4 serves numerous international carriers and is located south of the airport's central terminal area.
Which airlines operate from Heathrow Terminal 4?
Major airlines include Air France, KLM, Etihad Airways, Gulf Air, Korean Air, and other international carriers.
Terminal 4 is used by several SkyTeam airlines, although not all SkyTeam carriers operate from this terminal. For example, Delta Air Lines uses Terminal 3.
Heathrow Terminal 4 transportation
Terminal 4 has its own London Underground Piccadilly line and Elizabeth line connections.
Passengers transferring to other terminals can use Heathrow's available inter-terminal rail or bus services, depending on their itinerary.
Important 2026 update: Terminal 4's multi-storey parking facility closed for redevelopment in June 2026. Updated passenger collection arrangements include a Priority Pick-Up area and Park & Ride options. Check Heathrow's current instructions before arranging a pickup.
Heathrow Terminal 5: British Airways' Main Hub
Heathrow Terminal 5 is the primary operating hub for British Airways and also serves Iberia.
Opened in 2008, Terminal 5 features a large modern terminal complex with extensive shopping, dining, lounges, and international passenger facilities.
Heathrow Terminal 5 layout
Terminal 5 includes three principal gate areas:
Terminal 5A: The main terminal, containing check-in, security, arrivals, and numerous departure gates.
Terminal 5B: A satellite gate building accessible by the terminal's transit system.
Terminal 5C: An additional satellite building serving selected departures.
Travelers may need to use the automated transit system to reach satellite gates.
British Airways lounges at Terminal 5
Eligible premium passengers can access British Airways lounges, including Galleries facilities and the Concorde Room for qualifying travelers.
Terminal 5 is also connected to London Paddington by Heathrow Express and the Elizabeth line.
Traveler tip: Do not assume every British Airways flight departs from Terminal 5. Some flights operate from Terminal 3, so confirm your terminal before traveling to the airport.
How to Transfer Between Heathrow Airport Terminals
Heathrow provides free terminal transfers, but the correct method depends on whether you are connecting between flights or traveling between terminals outside the secure airport area.
Connecting flights: Follow the purple signs
If you have a connecting flight on a single itinerary:
- After leaving the aircraft, follow the purple Flight Connections signs.
- Check the airport screens for your next departure terminal.
- If your onward flight departs from another terminal, follow directions to the free airside connection buses.
- Complete the required connection security screening.
- Check your departure gate and proceed to your next flight.
Heathrow's airside terminal connection buses generally operate at frequent intervals, approximately every 10 minutes.
Traveling between Terminals 2 and 3
Terminals 2 and 3 are linked through Heathrow's central terminal area.
Passengers outside the secure area can use the underground pedestrian walkways, which typically require around 10 minutes or more depending on their starting and ending points.
Traveling between Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5
Passengers outside airport security can use free inter-terminal rail services, with a valid free transfer ticket or the required Oyster/contactless access arrangements.
Some routes require a change of train. Use Heathrow's official journey planner to confirm the quickest connection.
What if your flights are booked separately?
If you have booked separate tickets, you may need to:
- Enter the United Kingdom through passport control.
- Collect checked baggage.
- Travel to your next departure terminal.
- Check in and drop off baggage again.
- Clear departure security.
Allow substantial additional time for a self-connection, particularly when changing terminals or airlines.
You may also need UK entry permission if your itinerary requires passing through border control.
Heathrow Airport Security: What Travelers Need to Know
Heathrow has introduced upgraded security screening technology across its passenger terminals.
Heathrow liquids rules
As of October 2026, Heathrow allows liquids in individual containers of up to 2 litres through security at Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5. Travelers can generally leave liquids and electronic devices inside their cabin bags during screening.
This is an important change from the traditional 100 ml restrictions still used at many airports.
However, airline requirements, destination-specific restrictions, and security procedures at other airports may differ. Always check the rules for your complete journey.
How early should you arrive at Heathrow?
Heathrow's general arrival recommendations are:
| Flight type | Recommended arrival |
|---|---|
| Flights within the UK or Europe | 2 hours before departure |
| Long-haul international flights | 3 hours before departure |
Allow additional time during holidays, busy travel periods, or when checking baggage.
Travelers should also confirm their airline's bag-drop deadlines and gate-closing times.
Arriving at Heathrow: Immigration, Baggage & Customs
International passengers entering the United Kingdom typically complete the following steps.
Step 1: Passport control
Follow signs for Arrivals and UK Border Control. Eligible passengers may use automated ePassport gates.
Step 2: Baggage reclaim
Check the information screens for your assigned baggage carousel.
Step 3: Customs
Follow the appropriate customs exit, depending on whether you have goods to declare.
Step 4: Ground transportation
After exiting into the public arrivals area, follow signs for trains, Underground stations, taxis, private-hire vehicle collection points, or parking facilities.
Do U.S. travelers need a UK ETA?
Most eligible U.S. visitors traveling to the United Kingdom without a visa must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before departure.
As of October 2026, the UK government lists the ETA application fee as £20. An ETA generally permits multiple qualifying visits during its validity period, subject to passport validity and immigration rules.
Travelers remaining airside during a Heathrow connection, without passing through UK border control, are currently exempt from the ETA requirement. However, travelers passing through UK border control may require an ETA or visa.
Check the official UK ETA requirements before departure.
Heathrow Airport to Central London: Transportation Options
Heathrow offers several ways to reach London, including express rail, the Elizabeth line, the Underground, black taxis, and pre-booked private-hire transportation.
Compare Heathrow transportation options
| Transportation | Typical journey | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Heathrow Express | 15 minutes from Heathrow Central to Paddington | Fastest rail service |
| Elizabeth line | Under 45 minutes to many central London destinations | Direct access to several central stations |
| Piccadilly line | Approximately 50 minutes into central London | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Black taxi | Allow at least 60 minutes, depending on destination and traffic | Door-to-door transportation |
| Pre-booked private car | Allow at least 60 minutes, depending on destination and traffic | Families, business travelers, and luggage-heavy trips |
Travel times are approximate and do not include all walking, waiting, transfers, or unexpected delays.
Heathrow Express: Fastest Rail Connection
The Heathrow Express provides a nonstop rail connection from Heathrow Central, serving Terminals 2 and 3, to London Paddington in approximately 15 minutes.
Service from Terminal 5 takes slightly longer. Terminal 4 passengers generally connect via Heathrow Central.
This option is particularly convenient for travelers staying near Paddington or transferring to other rail services.
Elizabeth Line: Convenient Access Across London
The Elizabeth line connects Heathrow with important London destinations, including Paddington, Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, Farringdon, and Liverpool Street.
It is a useful choice for travelers visiting central London, business districts, or hotels near Elizabeth line stations.
Services serve Heathrow's active terminals, although the appropriate train and any required connections depend on your starting point and destination.
London Underground: Piccadilly Line
The Piccadilly line offers an economical connection between Heathrow Airport and central London.
Trains serve Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3, Terminal 4, and Terminal 5.
The journey into central London takes approximately 50 minutes, depending on the destination.
The Underground is particularly useful for travelers heading toward stations such as South Kensington, Knightsbridge, Green Park, or Piccadilly Circus.
Heathrow Airport Taxis & Private Chauffeur Transportation
Travelers looking for direct transportation to their hotel, residence, meeting, or event can choose a licensed London black taxi or a pre-booked private-hire vehicle.
Door-to-door service can be especially convenient for:
- Corporate travelers with meetings in central London
- Families traveling with children and multiple suitcases
- Visitors unfamiliar with London's train network
- Travelers heading to destinations outside central London
- Passengers arriving after a long international flight
Travelers should verify their driver's designated pickup location before arriving.
Important: Heathrow generally does not permit passenger pickups from terminal drop-off forecourts. Use authorized collection locations, including designated parking facilities or approved terminal-specific pickup areas.
Heathrow Airport Pickup and Meeting Points
Heathrow provides designated meeting points in each arrivals hall.
| Terminal | Official meeting point |
|---|---|
| Terminal 2 | Opposite the international arrivals exit |
| Terminal 3 | Ground-floor arrivals seating area |
| Terminal 4 | Near WHSmith on the ground floor |
| Terminal 5 | North meeting point opposite Travelex or south meeting point near Costa Coffee |
If you have arranged a private driver or meet-and-greet service, confirm whether you will meet the driver inside the arrivals hall or at a designated vehicle collection area.
Heathrow also charges £7 for vehicles using terminal drop-off areas, subject to applicable exemptions. This fee is separate from passenger pickup arrangements.
Heathrow Airport Lounges, Hotels & Passenger Amenities
All four Heathrow terminals offer restaurants, retail shopping, airport lounges, and passenger services.
Depending on your airline, ticket type, and membership, you may have access to premium airline lounges or independently operated lounges.
Popular airport lounge options
Terminal 2: United Club, Lufthansa lounges, and eligible independent lounge facilities.
Terminal 3: Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, American Airlines facilities, and other airline and independent lounges.
Terminal 4: Selected airline lounges and independent lounge options.
Terminal 5: British Airways Galleries lounges and other qualifying premium facilities.
Lounge availability and admission requirements vary, so check directly with the lounge or airline.
Hotels near Heathrow terminals
Travelers with early departures or overnight connections can also consider airport hotels.
Options include hotels connected to or within walking distance of certain terminals, as well as nearby hotels offering shuttle transportation.
Always verify hotel-to-terminal travel times before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heathrow Airport
How many terminals does Heathrow Airport have?
Heathrow Airport currently operates four passenger terminals: Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. Terminal 1 closed permanently in 2015.
Which terminal is British Airways at Heathrow?
British Airways primarily operates from Terminal 5, but selected British Airways flights use Terminal 3. Your terminal depends on the specific flight and route.
Which Heathrow terminal does Delta use?
Delta Air Lines operates from Heathrow Terminal 3, alongside its transatlantic partner Virgin Atlantic.
Which terminal does United Airlines use at Heathrow?
United Airlines operates from Terminal 2, Heathrow's principal Star Alliance terminal.
Can you walk between Heathrow Terminals 2 and 3?
Yes. Passengers outside the security-controlled area can walk between Terminals 2 and 3 using the central terminal area's pedestrian connections.
Is transportation between Heathrow terminals free?
Yes. Heathrow provides free connections between terminals. Airside connecting passengers use designated transfer routes and buses, while passengers outside security can use available free inter-terminal public transport options.
How long does it take to get from Heathrow to central London?
The Heathrow Express takes approximately 15 minutes from Heathrow Central to Paddington. The Elizabeth line generally reaches many central London destinations in under 45 minutes, while the Piccadilly line takes approximately 50 minutes. Traveling by road often requires an hour or more.
Do you need to go through security again when connecting at Heathrow?
Yes. Connecting passengers generally must complete Heathrow's connection security procedures before reaching their onward departure gate.
Do I need to collect my bags when connecting at Heathrow?
If your flights are on one connected itinerary and your baggage is checked through to your final destination, you may not need to collect it. If you have booked separate tickets, you generally need to collect and recheck baggage.
What is the fastest way from Heathrow Airport to London?
The Heathrow Express is the fastest rail service between Heathrow and central London, providing a nonstop connection to Paddington from Heathrow Central in approximately 15 minutes.
Is there a train directly from Heathrow Airport to central London?
Yes. The Heathrow Express, Elizabeth line, and Piccadilly line offer rail connections from Heathrow Airport to London. The best choice depends on your final destination, budget, and travel preferences.
Does Heathrow Airport have free Wi-Fi?
Yes. Heathrow offers free airport Wi-Fi throughout its passenger terminals.
Plan Your International Airport Journey With Confidence
Navigating London Heathrow is easier when you know your terminal, understand your connection requirements, and plan your ground transportation before arriving.
For travelers flying between London and the United States, reliable transportation on the U.S. side is another important part of the journey.
LUXY Ride provides pre-arranged premium black car and airport transportation across its supported U.S. markets, helping travelers organize airport pickups, departures, business trips, and planned transportation.
Whether you're departing from New York, Boston, Los Angeles, or another supported U.S. location, you can arrange your domestic airport transportation before beginning your international journey.
Explore LUXY Airport Transfers or find a supported LUXY location.
Official Heathrow travel resources
For the latest terminal assignments, schedules, security procedures, and airport information, consult these official resources:
- Heathrow Terminal Finder
- Heathrow Connecting Flights
- Heathrow Security and Baggage Rules
- Heathrow Passenger Pick-Up Information
- UK Electronic Travel Authorisation
Airport information reviewed October 2026. Airlines, airport procedures, transportation schedules, and fees may change.