A connecting flight is when you book one ticket and have multiple flights, arriving on one flight and leaving on another from the same airport.
You're not technically a connecting passenger if you've booked two separate flights. You'll need to go through immigration, collect your baggage and then go through check-in, bag drop and security again.
*Please note that if you’re connecting onto a domestic flight you will pass through UK immigration prior to Security.
Airlines sell connecting flights that are within an airports ‘minimum connection time’. If you have booked directly with an airline and your flight is on time, you will have plenty of time to make your connection. If your inbound flight is arriving late, speak to a member of staff and they will be able to help.
We would not recommend leaving the airport, even if you have a long layover.
Heathrow has four main terminal buildings and sub-buildings within those terminals, so your connecting journey will vary depending on where you arrive and where you are flying.
Once you arrive at Heathrow, you will see purple ‘Flight Connection’ signs, which will lead you to your next flight.
Depending on the type of passenger you are, here are the main ways to connect between each building:
Inter-terminal connecting passengers – connecting from one terminal to another. You can catch a free shuttle bus that operates every 10 minutes.
Intra-terminal connecting passengers – connecting within the same terminal. You can go on foot or catch a free tram.
Interdom connecting passengers – connecting from international to domestic. You will need to go through biometrics before reaching security.
Self-connecting - treated as arrival and departure - you'll need to go through security, collect your baggage, and check back in again. The information on this page doesn’t apply to you.
All connecting passengers must go through security again, and the 100ml rule still applies when connecting. Make sure you allow enough time for this to eliminate any rush or panic when catching your next flight.
As a connecting passenger, you can pass through security with just your itinerary in case you don’t have your boarding pass printed or at hand.
As a connecting passenger, you won’t have to pick up your luggage until you reach your final destination, where it will be waiting for you there. The only time you may need to pick up your luggage and go through the check-in process again is if you’re a self-connecting passenger.
If you are experiencing a delay in your initial flight and you are worried about catching your following flight on time, your airline may rebook you on the next available flight while you’re in the air, which you will be notified about once you land.
There are airline desks available for additional assistance pre and post-security.
If you have a lengthy layover time, you may consider booking a lounge to relax and eat in for a few hours. The lounges in terminal have comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options.
You can use foreign currency at Heathrow in our shops and restaurants. So, if you have a layover at Heathrow but aren't leaving the airport, there's no need to exchange your currency to enjoy all the airport has to offer.
