Connections FAQs

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Connections FAQs

Do I need to collect my baggage at Heathrow?

Your baggage may be through-checked to your final destination, but please confirm this with your airline as not all carriers offer this service. In the event that your baggage is not through-checked you must follow signs for arrivals and collect your cases from the baggage reclaim hall, then check your bags in as normal for the next leg of your journey.

Where do I get my boarding card?

Usually you will have been issued with all necessary boarding cards at your original point of departure, however, if this is not the case please contact your airline.

What is my minimum connection time?

Minimum connection times vary depending on your route and carrier. Please confirm this information with your airline.

How do I find my gate number?

When you reach your departure terminal, check the flight information screens in the departure lounge and listen for announcements relating to your flight. Gate numbers are displayed on these screens one hour before departure.

What should I do if my flight into Heathrow is delayed?

If you are delayed and are likely to miss your onward flight, go to your airline desk on arrival. Your airline representative will be able to advise you of your options.

Who can I ask for help?

For all general enquiries please contact your airline representative. There is a BAA information desk in Terminal 3 where you can also get help with enquiries.

What do I do if I am connecting to Gatwick Airport?

Passengers connecting to Gatwick must collect their baggage as it will not be through-checked. Whether you have hold baggage or not, please follow the signs for arrivals/baggage reclaim in your arrival terminal, then use one of the available travel options to Gatwick.

Information about transport to Gatwick or Stansted

What about liquids if I am connecting through Heathrow?

If you are arriving from a country within the European Union (EU) you can fly with all liquids providing you have proof of purchase and the item was bought less than 24 hours previously. If you are arriving from outside the EU, all liquids must be in individual containers with a capacity not greater than 100ml. They must be placed in a single transparent, resealable bag no larger than 20cm x 20cm (8in x 8in), and must fit comfortably inside the bag so it can be fastened closed.

If in doubt, why not wait until you get to Heathrow and have cleared security. Once you have been security checked you will be able to shop at will in the final departure lounge. We have a fabulous choice of wines and spirits and all the latest fragrances – all at tax-free prices. The exception is Australia. You cannot bring any liquids over 100ml into Australia.

If you are transferring to another flight before you reach your final destination, particularly within the EU, store staff may need to place your purchases in a special sealed bag.

If you are flying directly to the USA or Canada, you will be allowed to carry liquids. However, if you are transferring within the USA or Canada you will need to place any purchases over 100ml in your hold baggage, which all passengers have to pick up before transferring to their next flight. A few other countries may have introduced individual restrictions – our staff will be able to advise you.

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