FAQs

Not at all, just have your passport and ticket or boarding pass at hand.

You could try our Heathrow Meet and Assist service. Call +44 (0)20 8745 6011 to find out more. If you just need help with luggage, Heathrow Porters are available on the same number.

You should book assistance if you have an impairment and feel your journey would be easier if you had assistance from our team.

We will endeavour to keep you with your family as much as possible. Occasionally you may have to travel in a buggy and there will only be space for those requiring Special Assistance and one carer. In this case we will always let your remaining family members know where the next stop or meeting point is.

Luggage Assistance can be arranged for you free of charge for reasonable amounts of luggage.

Weight limits for normal, checked-in luggage do also apply for disabled persons and persons with reduced mobility. Weight limitations do not apply to the transport of medical and mobility equipment or assistive devices, however you may have to pay a fee for overweight luggage if it is not medical equipment or the two pieces of mobility equipment required for the journey.

If you have any shopping requirements please speak to your host in either the landside or airside assistance areas, so they can check whether one of our shopping experts is available to help. Our Shopping Ambassadors are Heathrow experts, equipped with both first class customer care and the knowledge of what our retail brands are offering so you don’t miss out.

Please note: _{While we will endeavour to fulfil all shopping requests, occasionally our team is fully booked. We require a minimum of 1 hour before boarding for shopping assistance. Food and beverages can be ordered via the Heathrow Grab app, and can be picked-up with your Special Assistance colleague on the way to the host point (after security).}

Our service is currently only available within Heathrow. If you need assistance getting to the airport and would like a 1:1 service, you could try Heathrow Chauffeur Service.

Please see our assistance guides for quiet areas.
Some of our terminals have quiet rooms, in others we have quiet areas which are away from the fuss of the busy terminal building. The areas are not exclusive to those who may have impairments and can be accessed by all passengers who are looking for a calmer place in an often fast-moving environment.

Yes. You will still have to report to our Assistance host area before going through security, but our team will ensure that you reach the lounge and are picked up from there when your flight is ready to depart.

Airlines are responsible for communicating essential information about a flight in accessible formats. Airlines are also obliged to provide assistance to and from the toilet and most will have onboard wheelchairs on each of their aircraft. However, Civil Aviation Authority guidance states that Airline staff are not expected to assist passengers with activities such as eating, drinking, taking medication or using the toilet facilities. If you require assistance of this kind you may need to travel with a carer.

All passengers, including those requiring Assistance, have to go through security checks. If you are not able to walk through our Archway metal detector, one of our security officers will conduct a tactile body search. This will be as non-intrusive as possible, but if you would prefer to have this done in private you may request to. More information on the process at security can be found here.

Our team will assist you with reaching our toilet facilities. They will not accompany you or assist you in the cubicle.

Yes - Airlines must accept all assistance dogs for air travel without charge.
Dogs will normally sit in the space on the floor in front of the seat . A safety harness should be taken on the plane to enable your dog to be secured during take-off and landing. You should contact your airline at least 48 hours in advance to let them know that you will be travelling with an assistance dog.

More information about travelling with an assistance dog can be found here.

If you experience problems with your mobility equipment at Heathrow we can provide a temporary replacement to allow you to continue your journey. Please ask a member of our team, who will make the necessary arrangements.

You may be asked for proof of your “fitness to fly” when requesting assistance. If you have a stable condition, there is generally no need to be cleared for travel. The CAA website contains more information: https://www.caa.co.uk/Passengers/PRM/Getting-medical-clearance-to-fly/.

Wearing one of our sunflower lanyards will discreetly indicate to our staff that you have a hidden disability and you may need additional support. Our staff have been trained to recognise these lanyards and to provide you with any help you may need at any stage of your journey. Go to our Hidden disabilities page to find out more or order a lanyard.

You may be asked for proof of your “fitness to fly” when requesting assistance. If you have a stable condition, there is generally no need to be cleared for travel. The CAA website contains more information: https://www.caa.co.uk/Passengers/PRM/Getting-medical-clearance-to-fly/.

Christmas is a busy time at Heathrow and the Government has prepared some useful advice on how you to prepare so that you have much better experience.

Visit gov.uk

If your airline gives permission, Christmas crackers are permitted to pass through security if they are in their original retail packaging. Each airline is different, so we recommend that you speak to them before you pack.

No. Party poppers are not permitted in either cabin or hold (checked) baggage.

If you’re carrying Christmas gifts in your hand baggage we suggest you leave them unwrapped wherever possible to avoid inconvenience and delay. Our teams will try to accommodate wrapped gifts, but you may be asked to unwrap an item to allow our security teams to complete a search. Christmas presents are subject to all the usual security restrictions so please ensure you only bring items which are permitted, even if they are presents.

See our Security information pages

The 100ml liquid rule applies to snow globes. It can be difficult to assess how much liquid is in a snow globe, so we advise passengers to pack these in their hold baggage.

See our Security information pages

Yes, all shops and restaurants will be open as usual throughout the holiday season, including on Christmas Day. Don’t forget you can pre-order items online before you fly and pick them up when you arrive in the departure lounge.

Browse Heathrow Boutique

There will be amended timetables and a reduced service during the festive period and we will soon publishing details.

We have some special events all year round and for Christmas Santa and his elves are coming to visit…

See our Special Events page.

You can use an internet world clock to compare the time in cities around the world – try www.timeanddate.com/worldclock or www.thetimenow.com. The UK uses GMT/UTC in winter (November to March) and BST (GMT/UTC + 1) in summer (April to October).

For the latest traffic information and forecasts, check the Highways Agency website.

• Car or taxi: 30 to 60 minutes (in average traffic conditions)
• Heathrow Express train: 15 minutes between Paddington and Terminal 2 or 3, a few minutes more for Terminal 4 or 5.
• Heathrow Connect train: 25 minutes between Paddington and Terminal 2 or 3, a few minutes more for Terminal 4 or 5.
• London Underground: From Terminal 2 or 3 it’s less than an hour to Green Park on the Piccadilly Line.
• National Express coach: 50 to 55 minutes from the central bus station.

For more help planning your journey, see our getting to central London page.

There are no road tolls but you will have to pay Congestion Charge if you drive into some parts of central London. You can find details on the Congestion Charge website.

You will have to pay to park almost everywhere in central London, either at on-street meters or in designated car parks. Charges and rules are set by local councils. For more help see the London Councils website.

Talk to your airline straight away – airlines are responsible for your bags all the way from check-in to collection at baggage reclaim.

Airline contact details

If you've lost something yourself while at the airport, please contact lost property.

There are strict controls on the foods you can bring into the UK. For example, it's illegal to bring meat and dairy products from outside the European Union. For details please see the Directgov website.

If your flight has been cancelled, you'll need to speak to your airline or travel agent directly. They will take you through your options and will be able to help with re-ticketing.

Your airline has the primary responsibility to assist you if you require overnight accommodation. Alternatively, there are a number of hotels a short bus ride from the airport or linked directly to our terminals. For more information or to book online, visit our hotels page.

It depends on the circumstances – you'll need to discuss the situation with your airline, travel agent or insurance company.

If you think you may be entitled to compensation there's an advice page on the Civil Aviation Authority website.

At times airlines may receiving a large number of passenger queries at once, but we do recommend that passengers continue to try to contact their airline directly, whether by phone or online. Further information can also be found on airline websites and Twitter.

When you get to the departure lounge, check the flight information screens and listen for announcements. We post gate numbers on the information screens one hour before departure. You can also find your gate number, once it's available, using our smartphone app.

It depends on your airline – often your baggage will be checked through to your final destination and you won’t need to touch it at Heathrow. However, this service isn’t available for all flights so check with your airline before you fly.

If you booked your flights separately to create your own flight connection, you will have to pick up your baggage at Heathrow.

Your airline should give you all the boarding cards you need, including those for any connecting flights, when you first check in. If you don't have yours, please contact your airline.

Tell a member of staff as soon as you land – they'll do whatever they can to help you get to your connecting flight in time, including telling you the quickest way to the gate.

If flight delays mean that you miss your onward flight, go to your airline desk when you arrive at Heathrow. Your airline representative will tell you what you can do.

During the day, passengers departing from Terminal 3 can book bedrooms in the No.1 Traveller Lounge, which is in the departure lounge (after security). Rooms can be booked for two hours or more, and opening hours are 04:30 to 22:30. Get a quote, see details or book a room.

There is nowhere to sleep overnight in the terminal but there's a great choice of hotels nearby – if you haven't already arranged somewhere to stay you can book a hotel room with us.

If you're a connecting passenger from overseas you'll have to pass through UK border controls to get to your hotel, so please ensure you have any required visa to enter the UK. You can apply for a 24-hour visa when you arrive, but this is at the immigration officer's discretion – find out more at the Border Force website.

Your connection time depends on your route, airline and whether you need to pick up baggage or change terminals, so there's no single answer – you need to confirm this information with your travel agent.

If you book a through-ticket with an airline or travel agent, your airline will generally quote a 'minimum connection time'. This helps determine what happens if your inbound flight is delayed so that you miss your outbound flight.

However, if you booked your flights separately, these minimum connection times don't apply. You should allow plenty of extra time to clear baggage reclaim and passport control, transfer between terminals, then check in and clear security for your outbound flight. These links may help:

• Arriving passengers
• Travel between terminals
• How early to check in at Heathrow

First plan your journey to your departure airport – you can view the bus and train options on our travel between London airports page or arrange a taxi.

When you land at Heathrow follow the signs for arrivals and pass through baggage reclaim, passport control and Customs. You'll see signs in the arrivals hall directing you to trains, buses and taxis.

When you get to the other airport you'll check in and drop your bags, then pass through security control to reach the departure lounge.

It's a security measure to stop anyone bypassing border controls by arriving with an international connecting ticket, then swapping documents with someone booked on to an internal (domestic) flight. For more details, see Flying within the UK and Ireland.

Everyone who boards an aircraft at Heathrow has to be security screened to UK government standards. Even if you've already been through security checks at another airport, we're obliged to screen you again before you fly from Heathrow.

The UK has some of the most comprehensive aviation security measures of any country in the world.

Here at Heathrow, we are committed to ensuring we work with our partners in the Metropolitan Police, the Civil Aviation Authority and the Government on these measures so that our passengers’ journeys are as safe as possible.

While most of our passengers will be familiar with Heathrow’s security screening processes as they arrive and depart, it’s important to note that these are not the only procedures in place to protect your safety.

The Metropolitan Police, various Government bodies and the Civil Aviation Authority are also working behind the scenes with us, Heathrow, to keep you safe.

What security measures do you have in place at the airport?

We have a range of measures in place to help keep passengers safe at the airport. Our people work very closely with the Metropolitan Police, the Civil Aviation Authority and the Government to ensure we have measures in place that reflect the current security threat levels. We also comply with international security regulations too.

The Metropolitan Police provides a visible security presence at the airport more information about what they do can be found on the Metroploitan Police website.

Passengers flying from the airport will need to pass through security control. Heathrow’s security teams are there to ensure security compliance, while also providing an efficient service to our passengers.

Find out more about what to expect at security control.

How regularly do you test them?

We take our responsibility to implement these regulations very seriously and we constantly monitor our own processes and performance to ensure our passengers’ safety.

In addition, the Civil Aviation Authority regulates and routinely monitors the implementation of UK Government security regulations at airports, including Heathrow, on behalf of Government.”. We take our responsibility to implement these regulations very seriously and are constantly monitoring our processes and performance to ensure our passengers’ safety.

Have you increased security recently?

We work closely with our partners – including the Metropolitan Police, the CAA and UK Government – to maintain high levels of security at all times.

The Government is responsible for setting the threat level to the UK which has remained at the same level – severe – since August 29, 2014. For more information, please visit the UK Government’s website. A range of approved security measures are in force and sometimes these are applied in different combinations to ensure we protect our passengers from the latest threats.

How do you measure queue lengths at Heathrow?

One of the ways we are doing this is by measuring the queue lengths in passenger search areas by capturing and processing facial biometrics. Images may be captured as you enter and exit the security search area. Facial biometrics are made by capturing images of your face and taking measurements to create a template that is unique only to you.

This is how we use and process facial biometrics:

• The data is not used for any other purpose than measuring queue times, which is the length of time it has taken you queue prior to the security process.
• Heathrow Airport will not attach any other personal information to this image
• The facial biometric will be deleted 65 minutes after creation
• Facial biometrics are not shared with any other organisation, only the queue time is used for security performance reporting
• Capturing and processing facial biometrics has no direct impact on your journey through the security search area
• Nothing direct or indirect will happen to you as a result of the facial biometric processing activity

Once the Biometric data is deleted only the anonymous journey transaction data (entry and exit location and time stamps) are retained for 120 days for reporting purposes. It is a stand-alone system used only to measure queue times, and cannot be used to prove the personal identity of any passengers.

If you would like to receive more information about the collection and use of your facial biometric data for queue measurement, please contact privacy@heathrow.com

Other biometric data use within Heathrow Airport

You might be aware that facial recognition biometric data is used for various immigration purposes by UK Border Force, such as e-gates, which provides Border Force means of automated entry back into the UK and for domestic travellers departing from Heathrow Airport.

The queue measurement facial recognition biometric data is completely separate from this, and your data is not shared with UK Border Force. 

What are the changes to the liquids rules?

Duty free liquids, aerosols and gels purchased from any airport or airline may now be carried as hand baggage. However, these must be sealed at the time of purchase with the receipt inside a security tamper-evident bag. Following the initial x-ray scan, security officers may also need to carry out additional checks.

Exceptions to the 100ml restrictions for liquid medicines and special dietary products, such as baby food, remain in place. However, following x-ray screening, security officers may also need to carry out additional checks on these items.

Passengers should continue to present liquids in containers of 100ml or less in a single, transparent, resealable 1 litre plastic bag.

For further information visit our Hand baggage page.

Will I be able to take my items through after any additional checks?

Yes, however where officers are unable to resolve a screening activation, exceptionally and solely for security reasons, liquids may be refused.

I purchased liquid items outside of the airport. Can I now take these through?

The 100ml restrictions for liquids remain in place with exceptions for liquid medicines and special dietary products, such as baby food.

Liquids, aerosols and gels in containers over 100ml are not allowed in hand baggage unless you are carrying duty free sealed in a tamper-evident security bag, liquid medicines or special dietary products, such as baby food. Liquids not allowed in hand baggage should be placed in your hold luggage.

For further information visit our Hand baggage page.

Will it take longer to go through security?

If you are carrying liquids, these may be subject to additional checks. We always recommend that you arrive at the airport as early as possible and ensure you leave sufficient time to proceed through security.

Can I take liquids in containers over 100ml on board?

In most cases liquids, aerosols and gels in containers over 100ml and those that cannot fit inside your liquids bag, must be carried in hold luggage (bags that are carried in the aircraft hold). Limited exemptions are in place for liquid medication, baby food and some duty free liquids; however, conditions apply. For most destinations, anything you buy after security control can be taken on board, including liquids over 100ml.

Some dangerous liquids can’t be carried on aircraft at all. For details see Hold luggage banned items.

What kind of plastic bag do I need for carrying liquids, aerosols and gels through security?

Your bag must be plastic, transparent, capable of being re-sealed and no bigger than 1 litre capacity. That's roughly 20cm × 20cm or 8in × 8in. You can only take one liquid bag per person, and all your liquids, aerosols and gels must fit inside with the bag completely closed. Additionally, each individual container within the bag must have a maximum capacity no greater than 100ml.

Liquid bags are available free at security. If you choose to take your own, you must ensure that it complies with the requirements above. If your bag is not of a standard shape and not marked as being 1 litre in capacity, you may be asked to put your liquids in one of our bags so we can be sure that the right amount of liquids are permitted through security.

Your liquids bag must be removed from other baggage and presented for screening separately to your other items.

I don’t want to buy bottled water do you have water fountains in the terminal?

Yes, we have over 100 water fountains across Heathrow’s four terminals clearly sign-posted and located at most toilets where you are welcome to fill up your water bottles.

What foods can I carry on board? Can I take my wedding cake?

You can take most solid foods, including wedding cake, in your hand luggage if you wish. Foods in sauces or dishes containing a lot of liquid will have to be in containers of 100ml or less, and placed inside a single transparent, resealable plastic bag of a capacity no greater than 1 litre.

Bear in mind that it's illegal to take some meat and dairy products abroad. You can find out more at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs website, or call 0845 933 5577.

Can I carry yoghurt or fruit juice through security?

You can, but these are considered liquids so the standard liquid rules apply. They must be in containers of 100ml or less, and placed inside a closed single, resealable, transparent plastic bag that has a capacity no greater than 1 litre.

There’s no 100ml limit on yoghurts or fruit juices bought in airport shops after security control.

Can I carry disposable contact lenses or contact lens solution in my hand baggage?

Yes, but the standard liquids rules apply. Each solution container or lens packet must have a capacity no greater than 100ml and must fit inside your transparent liquids bag.

Can I carry lipstick and deodorant in my hand baggage?

You can take solid cosmetics, such as standard lipsticks or stick deodorants, in your hand baggage.

Liquid, aerosol or gel cosmetics, including atomisers, creams, roll-on deodorants, sprays and gels are subject to the standard liquid rules. They must be carried in containers of 100ml or less, within a single closed transparent resealable plastic bag that has a capacity no greater than 1 litre (approximately 20cm x 20cm).

There’s no volume restriction if you pack your liquids, aerosols and gels into your checked-in luggage (to be carried in the aircraft hold).

What items are covered by the 100ml liquid restrictions?

The 100ml liquid rule applies to all liquids, aerosols and gels. This includes pastes, lotions, liquid/solid mixtures and the contents of pressurised containers, such as toothpaste, hair gel, drinks, soups, syrups, perfume, shaving foam and other items with similar consistencies.

All the above items must be in containers with a capacity of no greater than 100ml. All containers must fit inside a single closed transparent resealable plastic bag that has a capacity no greater than 1 litre.

Can I buy cosmetics, toiletries or drinks after security?

Yes. If you are on a direct flight (with no changes of aircraft along the way) you can take anything you buy after security into the aircraft and on to your destination.

If you are transferring or transiting at another airport after Heathrow, please check the regulations in force at that airport. They may restrict which items you can carry through flight connections.

Can I carry electrical items – such as laptops, MP3 players, or portable DVD players – in my hand baggage?

Yes, but make sure your electronic devices are charged before you travel. If your device doesn't switch on when requested, you won't be allowed to bring it on to the aircraft. Large electrical items must be removed from cabin baggage and in the case of laptops, from laptop cases prior to screening.

What is a 'large electrical item'?

As a general guide, large electrical items – which must be removed from other baggage prior to screening – are those that are approximately A5 size or larger, or where any dimension is greater than 20cm in length.

Small e-readers and tablets such as Kindles, Ipad mini's and similar sized devices are not considered large electrical devices and may remain in cabin baggage and protective sleeves.

Can I carry spare batteries in my hand baggage?

Safety rules regarding the carriage of spare batteries are complicated and subject to change. For the most up to date guidance please visit www.caa.co.uk.

Does security screening affect camera film?

No. Independent tests have shown that Heathrow's x-ray machines do not affect camera films. If you are carrying professional film rated ISO 800 or faster, you can request the film be searched by alternative means. We will accommodate this where possible but this cannot be guaranteed. Please bring any documentary proof of the film rating with you. We also recommend that you leave extra time to pass through security as additional screening requirements may be required.

Can I take gas-powered hair tongs into the aircraft cabin?

You can take one set of gas-powered curlers or tongs per person, as long as the safety cover is securely fitted to the heating element and the cylinder has a maximum capacity of no more than 100ml of gas. The cylinder must be detached and is subject to the standard liquids rules which means that it must fit inside a closed single transparent resealable plastic bag that has a capacity of no greater than 1 litre. You can't carry spare gas cartridges or refills.

Some airlines may operate additional restrictions, so please check before you fly.

Airline contact details

Can I take a nail file in my hand baggage?

Yes. If it is particularly sharp or pointed, please ensure that it is under 6cm in length.

Can I take nail scissors in my hand baggage?

Yes, providing the blades are no longer than 6cm measured from the point where the blades cross.

Why are security scanners installed at airports?

They have been introduced following a Government review of aviation security measures, to ensure we are taking the most effective action against emerging threats to security. They provide an additional, less intrusive method of screening passengers.

What legislation allows security scanners to be used?

Security scanners are a recognised screening method under European aviation security law. It's a Department for Transport (DfT) directive that we use these scanners (under the Aviation Security Act 1982).

How do you decide who has to pass through the security scanner?

Our security officers select passengers at random, or when there is a particular security concern (such as the activation of a metal detector).

If I'm asked to pass through the security scanner, can I choose to be screened by an alternative method?

The Department for Transport considers that there are no known health effects from the scanners in use at Heathrow. The only alternative that can be offered to a scanner is a private search which allows for a more extensive hand-search than usual. Passengers will be escorted to a different location in the airport from the main search area (eg a private search room). The private search may involve the loosening and/or removal of clothing. A person undergoing a private search may ask to be accompanied by a witness.

This alternative screening method will take significantly more time than passing through a security scanner.

Do you use backscatter-type scanners?

No, at Heathrow we only operate millimetre-wave based scanners.

Do children have to be security-scanned?

There are no special arrangements in place for children. The Department for Transport considers that there are no known health effects from the scanners in use at Heathrow. The only alternative that can be offered to a scanner is a private search which allows for a more extensive hand-search than usual. Passengers will be escorted to a different location in the airport from the main search area (eg a private search room). The private search may involve the loosening and/or removal of clothing. A person undergoing a private search may ask to be accompanied by a witness. This alternative screening method will take significantly more time than passing through a security scanner.

Do I need to be security-scanned if I am pregnant or undergoing medical treatment?

The Department for Transport considers that there are no known health effects from the scanners in use at Heathrow. The only alternative that can be offered to a scanner is a private search which allows for a more extensive hand-search than usual. Passengers will be escorted to a different location in the airport from the main search area (eg a private search room). The private search may involve the loosening and/or removal of clothing. A person undergoing a private search may ask to be accompanied by a witness.

Can I view the image that is produced of me by the security scanner?

Yes. Our scanners are fitted with Automatic Threat Recognition (ATR) software. The image produced is a generic stick-like figure, with marks showing where the scanner has detected concealed items view a sample image. You can see this image as you exit the scanner. No images are saved or retrievable at a later date.

Will I have to be security-scanned if I am wearing medical equipment?

The Department for Transport considers that there are no known health effects from the scanners in use at Heathrow. The only alternative that can be offered to a scanner is a private search which allows for a more extensive hand-search than usual. Passengers will be escorted to a different location in the airport from the main search area (eg. a private search room). The private search may involve the loosening and/or removal of clothing. A person undergoing a private search may ask to be accompanied by a witness.

This alternative screening method will take significantly more time than passing through a security scanner.

Where can I find out more?

The Department for Transport has published information about security scanners at UK airports, including the code of practice, on its website at www.dft.gov.uk.

Can I carry knitting needles in my hand baggage?

Yes, you can take knitting needles in the cabin with you.

Can I carry glass items in my hand baggage?

In most cases, yes. However, if the glass is hardened and contains a sharp edge or point you may be asked to check it into the hold of the aircraft.

Can I carry snow globes?

Yes, however they are subject to the standard rules on liquids, aerosols and gels which means they must contain no more than 100ml in volume, and must be placed together with your other liquids inside a single plastic resealable plastic bag that has a capacity no greater than 1 litre.

If the volume is not marked and not clearly under 100ml in volume, you may be asked to check it into the hold.

Can I take my jewellery in my hand baggage?

In almost all cases, yes. If the jewellery is particularly sharp or shaped to look like a weapon you may be asked to check it into the hold. If you're not sure, check the restrictions on sharp objects before you pack.

Can I take my house and car keys into the aircraft cabin?

Yes, you can take house and car keys (including car keys that lock remotely) with you. If you keep your keys in your pockets, you'll activate our security equipment so please place them in a tray for screening.

Can I take spectacles (glasses) in a case into the aircraft cabin?

Yes, you can.

Can I take an umbrella into the aircraft cabin?

Yes. Please check with your airline if you intend to carry large golfing-style umbrellas as there may be difficulties storing these in the cabin.

Can I take medicines in my hand baggage?

You can take enough essential liquid, aerosol or gel medicines in your hand luggage to cover your flight plus a reasonable amount to cover any delays. Any liquid, aerosol or gel medication not needed on the flight, together with any spares must be packed in your hold baggage.

There are no security restrictions on the carriage of powder or solid based medicines.

Liquid, aerosol or gel medicines in containers of 100ml or less should be either:

• Placed inside your single transparent, resealable plastic bag no larger than 20cm x 20cm, along with any other liquid items; or
• Carried separately together with supporting documentary proof of authenticity such as a prescription or letter from your doctor.

Liquid, aerosol or gel medicines in containers over 100ml must be carried separately, together with supporting documentary proof of authenticity, such as a prescription or letter from your doctor.

At security, you must present all liquid, aerosol and gel medication for inspection. Following x-ray screening, security officers may also need to carry out additional checks on these items.

The rules above apply equally to homeopathic and children’s medicines.

There is no requirement to contact the airport in advance of your travels.

Can I carry an ice-pack / liquid cooling bag?

You can only carry an ice-pack or liquid / gas cooling bag if you are carrying essential medication required during the flight and you can provide proof that the medication must be kept cool. Please see the restrictions on the carriage of liquid medicines for further details.

If your medication is not required during the flight but needs to be temperature controlled you must make arrangements with your airline to store the medicines and cool bag in an appropriate area of the hold.

Can I take my insulin and hypodermic needles in hand baggage?

Yes, you can take insulin and needles with you on to the aircraft. Please see the requirements surrounding the carriage of medicines.

My medicine is temperature-sensitive. Will it be OK in the aircraft hold?

Aircraft holds have areas at different temperatures, so contact your airline to make sure they store your medicine in the right area.

Can I carry tablets or pills in my hand baggage?

Yes. There's no security limit on the amount of medicine you can carry in tablet or pill form. And it doesn't matter whether your pills are prescribed or not.

Can I carry my EpiPen in my hand baggage?

Yes, you can, but please see the requirements surrounding the carriage of medicines.

Can I take my asthma inhaler in my hand baggage?

Yes, but please see the requirements surrounding the carriage of medicines.

Can I take my angina spray in my hand baggage?

Yes, you can but please see the requirements surrounding the carriage of medicines.

Can I take my blood pressure monitor into the aircraft cabin?

Yes, as long as it's small enough to comply with your airline's hand luggage rules. If you're not sure, check with your airline before you fly.

I will be taking bone marrow, stem cells or other medical samples out of the country. What happens at security?

You can take these items through security together with the necessary cooling equipment such as an ice pack or cooling bag providing you carry documentary proof of authenticity. This should normally take the form of a letter from a known medical establishment confirming the courier’s name, details of the sample and what it is being used for and an emergency contact number.

There is no requirement to notify the airport in advance but please arrive early as additional security checks may be required.

The Anthony Nolan Trust provides support to couriers transporting bone marrow and stem cells and should be contacted for further advice.

I am pregnant / have a pacemaker. Do I need to walk through the metal detector?

If you are pregnant or wearing a pacemaker, you may request a hand search instead of walking through the walk through metal detector. Please explain to the officer on duty the reason for your request.

Can I take a baby bag as well as my hand baggage?

Airlines have different rules about hand baggage, so please check with your airline before you fly.

Can I take my child's pushchair to the departure gate?

Yes, you can take a pushchair, pram or buggy all the way to the gate.

Your child will have to come out for a while when you reach security so we can check the buggy.

Arrangements for carrying pushchairs on aircraft and returning them afterwards depend on your airline and destination, so please check before you fly.

Airline contact details

Can I take wet wipes into the aircraft cabin?

Yes, you can.

Can I carry liquid baby food, prepared milk, soya milk, rice milk or sterilised water through security?

Yes, if you are travelling with a baby or infant you can carry a reasonable amount of liquid and liquidised food for the baby or infant infant for your journey. To assist security screening, please do not carry these items in a flask. Spare supplies must be packed in your hold baggage.

You can either carry the liquids as part of your liquid bag allowance in which case the standard liquid rules apply or alternatively separately in containers over 100ml. Following x-ray screening, security officers may also need to carry out additional checks on these items.

You can buy ready-to-drink formula milk in the airport shops after security. Boots sells formula in 250ml and 500ml sizes. If you’re worried about availability, you can use our pre-order formula with our Reserve and Collect service.

Can I take milk powder through security to make up a bottle of milk in the aircraft cabin?

Yes, you can.

Can I carry breast milk in the cabin?

Yes expressed breast milk is allowed even if you are travelling without an infant. This may be carried in the cabin providing no single container exceeds 2 litres. There is no limit on the number of containers you can carry but the milk must be in liquid form and not frozen. This only applies to expressed breast milk and does not apply to formula milk or other baby juice or food.

Can I carry puréed food in plastic pots or containers in my hand baggage?

Puréed food for adult consumption is treated as a liquid and the standard liquid rules apply which means it must be in a container with a maximum capacity of 100ml or less, and fit inside a single closed plastic transparent, resealable bag that has a capacity of no greater than 1 litre.

If the food is for a baby who’s travelling with you, the rules are a little different – see our advice on liquid baby food.

Can I take my baby's car seat through security for use on the plane?

Yes, you can take your baby's car seat through security. But check with your airline that they’ll allow you to use it on the plane.

Can I carry my musical instrument through security?

Yes, but you must check with your airline before you fly because airlines have different rules about how instruments are carried and whether they must be checked in and carried in the hold.

Some accessories, such as percussion mallets, may not be allowed in the cabin. See the rules on prohibited items.

Can I carry my hat box into the aircraft cabin?

Yes, as long as it complies with your airline’s hand baggage rules. If you're not sure what they are, check before you fly.

Can I carry my wedding dress into the aircraft cabin?

Yes, as long as it complies with your airline’s hand baggage rules. If you're not sure what they are, check before you fly.

Can I carry my wig spray in my hand baggage?

Yes, but the standard liquid rules will apply. It must be in a container with a capacity of 100ml or less, and fit inside a single closed plastic transparent, resealable bag that has a capacity no greater than 1 litre.

I am planning a scuba-diving or winter sports holiday. How do I transport equipment such as air tanks or CO₂ cartridges for buoyancy aids or avalanche packs?

Safety rules regarding the carriage of specialist equipment are complex and subject to change at short notice. We recommend that you visit the CAA's website where you can find full and up-to-date details.

Please note irrespective of safety rules, for security reasons, all personal liquids, aerosols and gels carried in the cabin must comply with the 100ml liquid rule.

Can I carry sports equipment such as flippers or fishing tackle in the aircraft cabin?

Yes, as long as it complies with your airline’s hand baggage rules. If your equipment contains sharp objects, it may have to be checked in and carried in the aircraft hold. Please check our list of prohibited items here.

To ensure your journey isn’t delayed, contact your airline to confirm arrangements before you fly.

Can I carry ashes through security and on board the aircraft?

Yes, however, we recommend the urn for the ashes is made of a material that can be x-ray screened – lead-lined containers for example cannot be processed through the x-ray. Where this isn't possible, the ashes may be subject to additional security measures as we are obliged to ensure that all hand luggage meets UK security requirements

Can I carry my tax-free and duty-free goods purchased at Heathrow into the aircraft cabin?

Yes, but if your journey involves you transferring or transiting at another airport, you will need to check with that airport whether or not they will let you carry them and under what conditions.

If you're travelling within the EU, you can alternatively use our Reserve and Collect service to store your airport purchases till you return. Just ask at the till.

Can I buy water or food in the departure lounge to take on board the aircraft?

Yes, you can.

Can I buy tax-free and duty-free goods if I am flying to the USA?

Yes, but if your journey involves you transferring or transiting at another airport, you will need to check with that airport whether or not they will let you carry them and under what conditions.

Can I seal my hold luggage with a lock?

Yes, you can protect your bags with a padlock or combination lock. However, some law enforcement agencies may force entry to the bag if necessary.

Be aware that any bags checked in at US airports have to be left either unlocked or locked with a TSA-approved lock. If you're not sure if this applies to you, check with your airline before you fly.

Can I carry electronic cigarettes?

Yes.

Can I carry Christmas crackers in my hand baggage?

Provided the crackers are in their original retail packaging, you can carry them through security in your hand baggage. But please check with your airline as some have decided not to allow them on board the aircraft.

Can I carry gift-wrapped items in my hand baggage?

We recommend that you don't, as security staff may need to open the wrapping to examine the contents.

What happens if an item is refused at security?

You will have several options available to you depending on the terminal and your airline's booking conditions:

• You can leave the item at security but it cannot be returned to you at a later date.
• You can return and you can check in your item in as hold baggage (subject to the airline's booking conditions). Please note this is not available in Terminal 5.
• Where facilities exist, post the item to an onward address using MailandFly.
• You can arrange to have your item shipped with Excess Baggage.

Do I need to remove my shoes at security?

Only if you’re asked. Some passengers will be asked to remove shoes in order for them to be x-rayed. We can’t comment on the selection criteria.

Can I carry a crash helmet through security?

Yes, but you must remove it when passing through security and check with your airline because some may not allow crash helmets.

I’m connecting through Heathrow and want to visit another terminal. Will I need to pass through security?

You should only transfer to another terminal if you have a connecting flight from that terminal. UK aviation security regulations require all passengers departing UK airports to have been screened to UK standards. Unless you are transferring from a domestic flight, all connecting passengers will be required to undergo security screening at Heathrow before their onward flight.

What can I do to get through security faster?

Save time at security by being prepared and knowing what to expect:

• Take laptops and other large electrical equipment such as iPads and kindles from your bags and place them in trays. As a guide, large electrical items are those that are approximately A5 in size or where any dimension exceeds 20cm.
• Small metal items such as keys, coins and mobile phones can be put either in your hand luggage, or in your coat pockets (in the tray). If you keep them in your pocket on your person, you will activate the security equipment delaying your journey.
• Make sure any liquids, aerosols and gels are in containers of 100ml or less, and place them in a single transparent resealable plastic bag that has a capacity of no greater than 1 litre (approximately 20cm x 20cm). The bag must be completely closed and placed in your tray separately to your other baggage.
• If we ask you to remove your shoes, they should go in the tray too
• If you’re carrying liquid medicines in containers over 100ml, have your prescription or doctor’s letter ready.
• Be ready to go through the security archway when we call you forward.

Whatever the outcome of Brexit, we will be open for business and flights will operate as usual. 

We have created a comprehensive set Brexit FAQs for you to download. These may change depending on ongoing Government negotiations. 

In the meantime we have summarised a useful checklist for you1) Passports

Please ensure your passport has at least six months expiry date left. This is only applicable if you are departing from the United Kingdom.

If you renewed a passport before it expired, up to nine extra months may have been added to the expiry date. Any extra months on your passport over 10 years may not count towards the six months that should be remaining, for travel to most countries in Europe. The new rules will apply to passports issued by the United Kingdom, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Isle of Man and Jersey. Please be mindful children’s passports will also be affected.

If you are a UK citizen and returning to the United Kingdom, you will be able to enter if your passport has less than six months expiry. Check the Government passport rules here

2) Flight numbers

Please ensure you have confirmation of your flight number before arriving at the airport.There may be some changes to your flight number and you will be contacted by your airline if this is the case. Airline contacts

3) Visas

Please ensure that your Visa remains valid before arriving to the airport. If there is a deal, there will be no changes to how you enter the EU or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland until at least 31 December 2020. You will continue to be able to travel or work without a visa during this time. If there’s no deal, you will not need a visa for short trips, according to European Commission proposals. You could stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The government website advises passengers to check back for updates. Travel to Ireland will not change, even if there’s no deal. You’ll continue to be able to travel and work there in the same way as before. Check the Government rules on visas here

4) Mobile phones

Please ensure that you have contacted or checked with your mobile operator before departing from the United Kingdom. If there is no deal, the costs that EU mobile operators would be able to charge UK operators for providing roaming services would no longer be regulated. This would mean that surcharge-free roaming when you travel to the EU could no longer be guaranteed. This would include employees of United Kingdom companies travelling in the EU for business.

5) Traveling with pets

Please ensure you have contacted your vet before you travel with your Pet, as there may be additional documentation required before departing the United Kingdom. You will still be able to travel with a pet from the United Kingdom to the EU, but you may need to allow more time to prepare and will need to make sure your pet has the correct documentation. You should contact your vet at least four months before you are planning to take your pet to the EU to discuss what steps you may need to take to make sure your pet is able to travel. Check the Government website about traveling with pets

6) Roads and Transport

Please check the latest road and transport information before you depart to ensure you have enough time to process through the airport. 

7) Boarding passes

Please ensure that you bring your boarding pass to the airport. You will still be required to show your boarding pass on departure whether the United Kingdom leaves the EU without a deal or not.

8) Driving

Please ensure your driving licence is valid before arriving at the airport. Drivers from the UK may need a different international driving permit (IDP) to drive abroad. If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, UK drivers may also need an IDP and extra documentation to drive in the EU and EEA. The Government rules on driving in the EU

Further enquiries

For all other queries relating to travel after the United Kingdom exits the EU, please select the links below which will direct you to the government website:

https://www.gov.uk/prepare-eu-exit/going-and-being-abroad

https://www.gov.uk/prepare-eu-exit/transport

It may be because it's too early or too late; or it may be that the flight operator hasn't supplied any information yet.

The flight information pages on this site show all flights due to arrive or depart at Heathrow in the next 12 hours. Flights remain in the list for about two hours after their arrival or departure. The boards in the airport carry the same information, subject to available screen space.

The information shown is based on what airlines tell us about the progress of their flights. Updates can only come from the airline.

If we know in advance about delays or cancellations to arriving flights, we'll display that information. Otherwise, status updates for inbound flights aren't normally available until the aircraft is in the air.

Our flight timetable contains flights up to a year ahead, and shows information including day, time, terminal and aircraft type.

Heathrow is owned by LHR Airports Limited.

You can find more company information on our corporate website.

We have extensive libraries of airport and aviation photography. Image buyers and businesses can use our photographs for an appropriate fee – visit our commercial photo library for details. Media organisations can also make use of our editorial photo library – visit mediacentre.heathrowairport.com.

The UK Government imposes Air Passenger Duty (APD) – it's paid by passengers and collected from airlines. The rate varies by ticket and journey type. Heathrow is not involved in levying or collecting APD. To find out more, see the HM Revenue and Customs website.

For information about airport charges, which are service fees paid to Heathrow by the airlines (and not a tax), see our conditions of use page.

Taxes and charges are explained on the Civil Aviation Authority website.

Flying Messenger service closure

We launched our Flying Messenger SMS service in May 2005. At that time, choosing a phone meant soapbar or clamshell; camera-phones were just starting to appear on the market.

Times change. Today the mobile web and smartphone apps offer better information, when you need it, at no additional cost. Paid SMS services are decreasing in popularity, and we have reached the point where it's no longer cost-effective to provide Flying Messenger.

We have therefore made the decision to close this service as of 30th November 2018. No further service requests will be answered.

If you have been a Flying Messenger customer — thank you! We hope our smartphone app and website will continue to provide you with an unrivalled flight information service, and more besides.

If you wish to contact us about the service closure, please email website_feedback@heathrow.com.

Airlines will only carry animals if advanced arrangements have been made, as space is often limited. Pets arriving into the UK may only do so as manifested cargo on an approved airline. View airline list. (24KB PDF).

There are two options and your airline will be able to tell you which services they are able to offer:

• Accompanied baggage – most airlines will accept animals as accompanied baggage providing they are in a suitable container. They will travel in the baggage compartment where a suitable environment can be maintained (note – animals arriving in the UK may only do so as manifested air cargo).
• Air cargo – owners can arrange for their animals to travel as air cargo without making the journey themselves.

These vary depending on the length of the journey, the weight of the animal and the size of the container. Your airline should be able to give you an estimate of the costs.

It is advisable to avoid arriving at some airports at weekends when inspection staff may not be on duty. Unlike Heathrow Airports, very few airports have reception centres where animals can be released and cared for until inspection is possible.

You must comply with the requirements of the destination country. Some will only require an export health certificate, some will need proof of vaccination, whilst others will require you to obtain an import permit. The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) operates an export helpline on +44 (0)20 7904 6347 or Fax +44 (0)20 7904 6395.

Pets arriving into Heathrow are collected from Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC). They aim to have EU pet arrivals ready within two hours of arrival, and four hours for those arriving from outside the EU.

The Pet Travel Scheme is the system that allows:

• Pet dogs, cats and ferrets to enter the UK without quarantine as long as they meet the rules.
• People in the UK to take their dogs, cats and ferrets to other countries and territories, and return with them to the UK without the need for quarantine.

More information on this scheme can be found at defra.gov.uk.

It is important that, in addition to the health and documentation requirements, your animal travels in a container that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements. Airlines and IPATA pet agents should be able to advise you on obtaining such a container. Watch the video now.

All assistance animals arriving and transiting through Heathrow must be pre-approved by Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC) and compliant with The Pet Travel Scheme. Please notify HARC at least 72 hours before you’re due to fly. A pre-approval letter will be issued by HARC upon completion which must be forwarded to your carrier and shown to check-in staff at your departing airport. Upon arrival at Heathrow a member of staff from The Animal Reception will meet you at the flight to check your assistance dog's original paperwork. This should take no longer than five minutes.

Please note: additional charges must be paid directly to HARC if your assistance dog has not received training from an organisation accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI)