Terminal 4 Overview

  • Primary use: Focuses on SkyTeam Alliance airlines (e.g., KLM, Air France, Delta) and other international carriers like Qatar Airways, Etihad, and Malaysia Airlines.

  • Key features: Recently refurbished (reopened in 2021), compact layout with a focus on efficiency, and a mix of long-haul and short-haul flights.

Getting to Terminal 4

  1. By Train/Tube:

    • Heathrow Express: Connects to Terminals 2 & 3 (transfer via free shuttle bus to T4).

    • Elizabeth Line: Direct service to Central London (Terminal 4 station).

    • Piccadilly Line: Does not serve T4 – take the Tube to Terminals 2 & 3, then transfer via free shuttle bus.

  2. By Car/Taxi:

    • Drop-off: Designated curbside area (free for quick stops).

    • Parking: Pre-book Long Stay parking (shuttle buses run every 15–20 mins).

  3. Terminal transfers:

    • Free Heathrow Shuttle Buses (Service 482/490) connect T4 to other terminals (15–20 mins).

Terminal 4 Layout

Departures (Level 2)

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

    • Self-service kiosks and bag-drop counters available.

  • Security:

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

    • Busiest times: 5–8 AM and 4–7 PM (arrive 3 hours early for long-haul flights).

Departures Lounge (Level 2, post-security)

  • Shopping:

    • Duty-free (World Duty Free).

    • Luxury brands (Ted Baker, Hugo Boss, Victoria’s Secret).

    • Travel essentials (WHSmith, Boots).

  • Dining:

    • Casual: Pret A Manger, Costa Coffee, Giraffe.

    • Sit-down: Caviar House & Prunier (seafood/champagne), The Curator (craft beers).

  • Lounges:

    • SkyTeam Lounge (for eligible business/first-class passengers on SkyTeam airlines).

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

Arrivals (Level 1)

  • Baggage reclaim: Carousels 1–4 (check screens for your flight).

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

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

Airlines Operating from Terminal 4

  • SkyTeam: Air France, KLM, Delta, Virgin Atlantic (select flights).

  • Others: Qatar Airways, Etihad, Malaysia Airlines, Kenya Airways.

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

Top Facilities & Services

  1. Lounges:

    • SkyTeam Lounge: Complimentary for business/first-class SkyTeam passengers (Priority Pass accepted).

    • Plaza Premium Lounge: Pay at the door or pre-book online (includes hot meals and Wi-Fi).

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

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

  4. Baggage services:

    • Left luggage (£12.50/bag per day; Level 1, Arrivals).

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

  5. Currency exchange: ICE/Bureaux de Change (pre-order online for better rates).

  6. Special assistance:

    • Book free help (wheelchairs, guided support) via your airline 48 hours in advance.

  7. Family-friendly:

    • Baby-changing rooms (all restrooms).

    • Play area near Gate 10.

  8. Quiet zones: Secluded seating near Gates 6–8.

Food & Drink Highlights

  • Quick bites:

    • Pret A Manger (open 24/7).

    • Itsu (sushi and hot Asian meals).

  • Sit-down:

    • Giraffe (global comfort food – try the breakfast menu).

    • The Commission (British pub classics and craft beers).

  • Coffee: Costa, Starbucks, Caffè Nero.

Shopping Must-Sees

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

  • Fashion: Ted Baker, Hugo Boss, Victoria’s Secret.

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

Pro Tips for Terminal 4

  1. Avoid crowds: Security lines are shortest mid-morning (9–11 AM) and late evening (8–10 PM).

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

  3. Layovers:

    • Relax at the Plaza Premium Lounge (shower facilities available).

    • Take the Elizabeth Line to Central London (35 mins to Bond Street).

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

  5. Sustainability: Refill water bottles post-security (free stations near Gates 1–3).

Key Contacts

  • Lost property: +44 (0)20 8745 7725 (Terminal 4 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.

Terminal 4’s compact size makes it easy to navigate, but always allow extra time for security and transfers. Safe travels! ✈️