โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
London Heathrow has four active terminals (T2โT5). T2 and T3 sit in the central terminal area and are linked by an airside/landside pedestrian corridor in 10โ15 minutes, while T4 and T5 sit on separate spurs and rely on free Flight Connections buses or the inter-terminal Heathrow Express shuttles (every 15 minutes) for 10โ20 minute transfers. All terminals feed into the central rail/tube station complex, with T5 using its own station for both the Elizabeth line/Heathrow Express and the Piccadilly line. Clear terminal signage, colour-coded zones and multiple lifts/escalators make wayfinding straightforward.
Security checkpoints sit on Departures in every terminal (multiple lanes in T2, a central hall in T3, a large central checkpoint in T5, and T4โs main hall). Fast Track is available for eligible premium and status passengers. Typical waits run 10โ20 minutes off-peak and 20โ35 minutes during the morning/evening banks; expect additional time if transferring landside between terminals because re-screening is mandatory.
UK Border Force operates large immigration halls with eGates in T2โT5; Fast Track immigration is offered for premium cabins and select statuses. International-to-international Flight Connections centres in each terminal allow eligible airside transfers with dedicated security, while passengers changing terminals often ride an airside bus before clearing a smaller re-check screening point. Customs exits (green/red channels) sit immediately after baggage reclaim in each arrivals hall.
Amenities vary by terminal: T2 hosts Plaza Premium and United/AC/UA Star Alliance lounges plus Heston Blumenthalโs The Perfectionistsโ Cafรฉ and a large duty-free. T3 concentrates many oneworld and Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse lounges alongside Cathay Pacific, Qantas and American lounges, plus dining such as Oriel and Pret. T4 features the Plaza Premium lounge, Etihad and Qatar lounges, and a quieter mix of cafรฉs/shops. T5, the British Airways hub, offers multiple BA Galleries/First lounges, an Aspire lounge, Gordon Ramsay Plane Food, and extensive retail including World Duty Free, Prada and Harrods.
Accessibility is step-free across terminals with ramps, elevators, tactile paving, induction loops and Changing Places facilities in T2, T3 and T5. Special assistance reception points sit kerbside and inside departures; pre-booking is recommended. Families can use โStay & Playโ soft play areas in T2 and T5, baby-change rooms in every washroom cluster, and family security lanes during peak school-holiday periods.
๐ Connection Tips
LHR requires re-security screening for terminal transfers. Allow extra time for immigration during peak hours. Heathrow Express is the fastest inter-terminal transport.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
110
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Benbecula Airport (BEB) serves the islands of Benbecula, North Uist, and South Uist in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Operated by Highlands and Islands Airports Limited, this regional airport is a vital transport hub connecting these remote islands to mainland Scotland (primarily Glasgow), as well as to Stornoway and Barra. The airport operates with two runways (06/24 and 17/35) and a compact terminal building designed to efficiently handle approximately 35,000 annual passengers. Its role extends beyond civilian travel, as it also supports critical emergency air ambulance services and operations related to the nearby missile test range.\n\nSecurity procedures at BEB are in line with UK domestic airport standards. Passengers can expect efficient processing through security checkpoints, which include baggage screening and personal checks. Due to the airport's smaller size and passenger volume, check-in and security processes are generally quick. Boarding is typically conducted via a short walk across the tarmac to the aircraft, usually turboprops operated by Loganair or British Airways (codeshare). Given its island location, flights can be subject to delays or cancellations due to adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and fog. Travelers are advised to confirm flight statuses in advance.\n\nAmenities within the terminal include the recently opened Ceilidh Cidsin restaurant, offering refreshments and meals. Restrooms and basic waiting areas are available. Travelers will not find extensive retail shops or duty-free options. For ground transportation, car rental services are available, and a daily Hebridean Coaches bus service connects to various points on the islands. The airport serves as a critical gateway to the pristine Outer Hebrides, known for their ancient Gaelic culture, white sand beaches, dramatic Atlantic coastline, and world-class birdwatching opportunities.
๐ Connection Tips
Vital transport hub for Benbecula, North Uist, and South Uist islands connected by causeway but 2+ hours from mainland by sea. Three scheduled destinations: Glasgow, Stornoway, and Barra. Daily Hebridean Coaches bus service available.
โ Back to London Heathrow Airport