Terminal 3 Overview

  • Primary use: Handles long-haul international flights and serves Oneworld Alliance airlines (e.g., British Airways, American Airlines, Qantas) and others like Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, and Delta.

  • Key features: A mix of modern upgrades and classic design, with a focus on premium services and global connectivity.

Getting to Terminal 3

  1. By Train/Tube:

    • Heathrow Express: 15 mins from Paddington (alight at Terminals 2 & 3 station; follow signs for T3).

    • Elizabeth Line: Direct connection to Central London.

    • Piccadilly Line: Exit at Terminals 2 & 3 station (5-min walk to T3).

  2. By Car/Taxi:

    • Drop-off: Use the Terminal 3 Short Stay car park (free drop-off).

    • Parking: Pre-book Long Stay parking (free shuttle buses every 10–15 mins).

  3. Terminal transfers:

    • Free Heathrow Express trains or shuttle buses connect all terminals (5–10 mins).

Terminal 3 Layout

Departures (Level 1)

  • Check-in: Zones A–G (check your airline’s zone online or on screens).

    • Self-service kiosks and fast bag-drop areas (available for most airlines).

  • Security:

    • Fast Track lanes (£5–£15; book online in advance).

    • Busiest times: 6–9 AM and 5–8 PM (arrive early during these windows).

Departures Lounge (Level 1, post-security)

  • Shopping:

    • Duty-free (World Duty Free).

    • Luxury brands (Burberry, BVLGARI, Rolex).

    • Travel essentials (WHSmith, Boots).

  • Dining:

    • Casual: Pret A Manger, Starbucks, Leon.

    • Sit-down: Gordon Ramsay’s Plane Food, The Curator (craft beers and tapas).

  • Lounges:

    • Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse (exclusive for Virgin Upper Class/flying club members).

    • BA Galleries Lounge (Oneworld business/first-class passengers).

    • Plaza Premium Lounge (pay-per-entry: £50+ for 3 hours).

Arrivals (Level 0)

  • Baggage reclaim: Carousels 1–8 (check screens for your flight).

  • Customs/immigration: eGates for eligible passports (UK/EU/EEA/Singapore/South Korea).

  • Onward transport: Follow signs for trains, buses, or taxis.

Airlines Operating from Terminal 3

  • Oneworld Alliance: British Airways, American Airlines, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific.

  • Others: Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, Delta, Air New Zealand, Etihad.

  • Full list: Check Heathrow’s official website for updates.

Top Facilities & Services

  1. Lounges:

    • Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse: Free spa treatments, à la carte dining (Upper Class passengers only).

    • American Airlines Admirals Club: Complimentary for business-class flyers.

    • No1 Lounge: Pay-per-entry (£35+; includes food/drinks).

  2. Free Wi-Fi: Connect to “Heathrow Wi-Fi” (unlimited access).

  3. Charging stations: Located near gates and seating areas (USB and plug sockets).

  4. Baggage services:

    • Left luggage (£12.50/bag per day).

    • Lost property desk (Level 0, Arrivals).

  5. Currency exchange: Travelex (pre-order online for better rates).

  6. Special assistance:

    • Book free wheelchair/guided help via your airline 48 hours in advance.

  7. Family-friendly:

    • Baby-changing rooms (all restrooms).

    • Play area near Gate 25.

  8. Quiet zones: Secluded seating near Gates 15–18.

Food & Drink Highlights

  • Quick bites:

    • Pret A Manger (open 24/7).

    • Itsu (sushi and Asian-inspired meals).

  • Sit-down:

    • The Commission (British pub classics).

    • Caviar House & Prunier (luxury seafood and champagne).

  • Coffee: Starbucks, Costa, Caffè Nero.

Shopping Must-Sees

  • Duty-free: World Duty Free (perfumes, alcohol, cosmetics).

  • Luxury: Burberry, BVLGARI, Harrods Boutique.

  • Tech: Dixons Travel (noise-canceling headphones, adapters).

Pro Tips for Terminal 3

  1. Avoid queues: Arrive 3 hours before long-haul flights (security peaks 6–9 AM).

  2. Fast Track Security: Pre-book online for faster clearance.

  3. Layovers:

    • Relax at the No1 Lounge (shower facilities available).

    • Take the Tube to London (30 mins to Covent Garden).

  4. Stay updated: Use the Heathrow App for live flight alerts and interactive maps.

  5. Sustainability: Refill water bottles post-security (free stations near Gates 10–12).

Key Contacts

  • Lost property: +44 (0)20 8745 7725 (Terminal 3 desk).

  • Special assistance: +44 (0)344 412 7747.

Final Checklist Before You Fly

  • Confirm your airline’s check-in zone online.

  • Pre-book Fast Track, lounge access, or parking.

  • Charge devices and download entertainment pre-flight.

Terminal 3 combines classic Heathrow charm with modern efficiency. Allow extra time for security and exploring its premium shops and lounges. Safe travels! ✈️