What's new at Heathrow this summer? 10 things passengers need to know

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From speedy next-generation security lanes and new international routes, to upgraded lounges and new shops and restaurants, Heathrow is unveiling a host of new additions to help passengers start their summer holidays smoothly. 

More than 23 million passengers are expected to travel through Heathrow this summer. Whether jetting off on a summer family holiday, business trip or much needed solo getaway, travellers can now enjoy faster, smoother security screening, more destinations, family-friendly deals such as Kids Eat Free and an even wider choice of dining and shopping destinations.

Experience a £1 billion security upgrade 

Heathrow has completed its £1 billion security transformation and this willbe the first summer passengers across every terminal will be using the next-generation CT security scanners. Passengers travelling on their summer holidays no longer need to remove liquids or large electronic devices from their hand luggage, helping make security screening quicker and more convenient. The upgrade has already contributed to 97% of passengers waiting less than five minutes to clear security.

Speedy immigration for families  

Children aged 8 and above can now use the eGates at Heathrow. They will need to have an eligible passport and be travelling with an adult. This change is designed to help make arriving to the UK for families faster and involve less waiting time during Passport Control.

Enjoy new routes 

As the worlds most connected airport, Heathrow is making it easier than ever for travellers to explore the world this summer, with a host of new destinations joining its ever-expanding flight network. Passengers can now fly direct to exciting locations including the historic Spanish city of Seville, the stunning Adriatic coast of Tivat in Montenegro, vibrant St. Louis in the USA and Guernsey’s picturesque beaches. New links to Lahore and Islamabad also offer even more choice for those visiting friends and family.

Heathrow has also welcomed a brand-new airline, Alaska Airlines, which has launched a daily service to Seattle – where travellers can see the futuristic Space Needle, its most iconic landmark. Plus, in September Xiamen Air will launch an exciting new route between Heathrow and Xiamen, China.

Relax in upgraded lounges

Virgin Atlantic unveiled its refurbished Clubhouse at Heathrow earlier this year, featuring a redesigned cinema area, work pods and an exclusive Royal Box VIP space.   Air France also boasts its first branded premium lounge in Terminal 4 as of this July, which includes French-inspired dining and complimentary Clarins treatments.

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Keep little ones entertained 

Heathrow colleagues will be handing out free colouring books to young passengers in July and August, providing added entertainment for their time in the airport and on flights. Plus, each terminal features a free Stay & Play area, located after security. Here children can enjoy soft play, slides, and separate toddler and junior zones.

Take advantage of Kids Eat Free 

Good news, parents! During the summer holidays, many of Heathrow’s restaurants are offering a Kids Eat Free deal. From 20 July – 1 September, when an adult orders a main meal, your children can eat free. Family favourites including Giraffe, Jones the Grocer, Co-Pilots Bar & Kitchen and Wild Olive are just some of the restaurants participating this year.

Enjoy new restaurants 

Terminal 2 has welcomed a brand-new Bill’s restaurant. Here passengers can enjoy a relaxed all-day dining experience suitable for the whole family. A £3.5 million Wetherspoons will also open at Terminal 2 this summer, perfect for a quick meal before boarding.

Grab new food on the go 

Wagamama, Britain’s beloved Pan-Asian chain, now features an ‘on the move’ kiosk at Terminal 5. Now travellers can grab travel-friendly versions of their favourite menu items. A new Pret A Manger is also set to open in Terminal 5 Arrivals, expected end of July. Here you can get a quick and convenient meal or snack to enjoy in the terminal or on your flight.

Discover Miniso 

Popular and innovative product retailer Miniso is opening at Terminal 5 this summer, bringing its range of plush toys, beauty products, stationery and exclusive licensed collections including Hello Kitty, Kuromi and Cinnamoroll.

Look out for Here to Help 

Throughout the summer, Heathrow’s Here to Help colleagues will be strategically positioned across the airport to provide support and assistance to passengers. Look out for the distinctive purple Here to Help vests across all terminals.

Daniel Edwards, Director of Airport Journeys at Heathrow said: “Summer is one of our busiest and most exciting times of year, and we want to make every journey through Heathrow smooth and enjoyable. From faster security lanes to more places to shop, eat and relax, we’re always looking for ways to help our passengers get their travels off to a great start.”

5 Top tips for a smooth summer getaway from Heathrow: 

1. Check in before you arrive

Save time at Heathrow by checking in electronically, downloading your boarding pass and checking your airline’s baggage requirements before you set off.

2. Keep liquids and electronics in your bag

Thanks to Heathrow’s upgraded security lanes, you no longer need to remove liquids or large electronic devices when going through security scanners.

3. Check the new battery rules

Check with your specific airline regarding battery rules, as some airlines now require you to pack batteries in hand luggage and be placed within reach during your flight. This can include items such as power banks, e-cigarettes or simply travelling with spare batteries.

4. Make the most of your time before boarding

Give yourself time to enjoy all that Heathrow has to offer past security – from luxury dining to convenient grab and go, arriving on time means you can start your travels feeling relaxed.

5. Ask the Here to Help team

If you do need some extra assistance at Heathrow, look out for the Here to Help team. They’re on hand throughout the airport to answer your questions and help you find your way.

For more information about the exciting experiences coming to Heathrow this summer, visit: www.heathrow.com

For more information about Heathrow’s Kids Eat Free offer, and a list of participating restaurants, visit: www.heathrow.com/at-the-airport/restaurants-a-z/kids-eat-free