Heathrow Airport Terminal 5
Heathrow Terminal 5 is one of the airport's main passenger terminals and a major hub for British Airways, with Iberia also operating flights from the terminal. Opened in 2008, Terminal 5 serves domestic and international destinations and offers a wide range of facilities, including check-in services, security screening, shops, restaurants, free WiFi and accessible travel support.
The terminal comprises the main Terminal 5A building and two satellite buildings, Terminal 5B and Terminal 5C, which are connected by an automated transit system. Our guide covers essential information to help you prepare for your journey, from transport and check-in to family facilities and passenger services.
Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 Parking
If you're driving to Heathrow Terminal 5, APH offers a choice of airport parking options to suit different travel requirements. Compare Park & Ride, Meet & Greet and on-airport parking services based on location, transfer arrangements, security features and price.
Family-owned since 1980, APH helps travellers find convenient airport parking options. Visit our dedicated Heathrow Terminal 5 parking page to compare availability and book online.
View airport parkingHeathrow Airport Terminal 5 Hotels & Parking
Staying near Heathrow Terminal 5 before an early flight can make your departure day more convenient. APH offers hotel and parking packages that combine an overnight stay with parking for the duration of your trip.
Accommodation options include hotels connected to Terminal 5 by pedestrian routes and properties offering airport transport connections. Visit our Heathrow Terminal 5 hotel and parking page to compare available packages, parking arrangements and transfer options.
View hotels & parkingHeathrow Airport Terminal 5 Hotels
Heathrow Terminal 5 has a choice of nearby hotels for passengers who want to stay close to the airport before or after their flight. Some hotels offer direct pedestrian access to the terminal, while others require a short bus, taxi or hotel transfer.
Hotel facilities, walking distances and transport arrangements vary by property, so check whether your chosen accommodation provides direct terminal access or requires a transfer. Visit our Heathrow Terminal 5 hotels page to compare available options.
View Airport HotelsHeathrow Airport Terminal 5 Essential Information
If you’re flying from Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 Terminal, we’ve collected the essential ‘must-know’ information you’ll need to ensure your trip gets off to the perfect stress-free start:
Take a virtual tour
Explore Heathrow Terminal 5 before travelling with a virtual tour of the terminal. A virtual walk-through can help you familiarise yourself with check-in areas, departure facilities and the general terminal layout, making it easier to plan your journey through the airport.
Some images may not reflect recent changes, so use Heathrow's official Terminal 5 map for the latest information about facilities, walking routes and departure gates.
View a map of the terminal
Heathrow Terminal 5 consists of three connected buildings: Terminal 5A, Terminal 5B and Terminal 5C. The main Terminal 5A building contains check-in, security and the principal departure lounge, while the satellite buildings serve additional departure gates.
The A gates are approximately 400 metres from security, with a typical walking time of around 10 minutes. Gates in Terminal 5B and Terminal 5C are farther away and require a journey using the automated transit system, with Heathrow advising approximately 15 minutes from security.
Use Heathrow's official interactive Terminal 5 map to locate check-in zones, security, toilets, accessible facilities, shops and departure gates.
Terminal Airport Live Flights
Check live departure and arrival information for flights operating from Heathrow Terminal 5 using Heathrow Airport's official flight information service. You can find scheduled and estimated flight times, current flight status and departure gate details when available.
Flight times and gate assignments can change throughout the day, so check your flight before leaving home and continue monitoring the information screens once you arrive at the airport.
Check traffic before you leave home
Heathrow Terminal 5 is accessible from the M4 and M25 motorways, with dedicated road connections to the terminal and its car parks. Traffic conditions can change throughout the day, particularly during busy holiday periods, weekday commuting hours and major events.
Check live traffic information before travelling and follow signs for Terminal 5, passenger drop-off or your pre-booked car park. Allow additional journey time if congestion, roadworks or incidents are affecting the airport approach roads.
Top Tip
If you've booked airport parking, use the directions and postcode in your APH booking confirmation rather than navigating directly to Terminal 5. Car park entrances and drop-off locations may have different access routes.
Flight check-in details
Check-in times at Heathrow Terminal 5 vary depending on your airline, destination and whether you're travelling with checked luggage. As a general guide, allow around two hours before short-haul flights and three hours before long-haul departures, unless your airline advises otherwise.
British Airways and Iberia offer online check-in and baggage drop-off facilities, although opening times and deadlines depend on your flight. Check your airline's recommended arrival time and follow signs for the correct check-in zone. Passengers travelling with hand luggage only may be able to proceed directly to security if they already have a valid boarding pass.
Security and hand luggage: Heathrow Terminal 5 uses upgraded security scanners that allow passengers to leave permitted liquids and electronic devices inside their hand luggage during screening. Liquids, aerosols and gels can be carried in individual containers of up to two litres, while laptops, tablets and other large electronic devices can remain inside cabin bags.
Heathrow allows up to two pieces of hand baggage through security, each measuring no more than 56cm × 45cm × 25cm. Your airline may have more restrictive baggage allowances, so check its requirements before travelling. Reusable metal or insulated bottles must be emptied before security and can be refilled afterwards.
Baby milk, food and essential medication can be carried through security subject to the relevant screening requirements. Security rules at your return airport may differ, so check the requirements for each airport on your journey.
Follow instructions from security staff and check Heathrow's latest hand baggage guidance before travelling.
Online and mobile check-in
Airlines operating from Heathrow Terminal 5 offer online and mobile check-in services that allow passengers to prepare for their journey before arriving at the airport. Depending on your airline and booking, you may be able to choose seats, download a digital boarding pass and manage your travel details through a mobile app.
Online check-in opening times and deadlines vary by airline. If you have checked luggage, you must still follow your carrier's baggage drop-off instructions, while passengers with hand luggage only may be able to proceed directly to security with a valid boarding pass.
Terminal destinations
Heathrow Terminal 5 is a major base for British Airways and also serves Iberia flights. Passengers can travel to a wide range of domestic and international destinations, including cities across the UK, Europe, North America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
British Airways also operates flights from Terminal 3, so its services do not all depart from Terminal 5. Routes and terminal allocations can change, and passengers should check Heathrow's official airline and destination directory for the latest information before travelling.
Facilities for disabled passengers
Heathrow Terminal 5 provides Assisted Travel services for passengers with reduced mobility, disabilities and additional accessibility requirements. Passengers who need assistance should arrange support through their airline or travel provider at least 48 hours before departure, where possible.
Assistance is available in the check-in area before security and at several locations after security, including opposite Gates A4 and A20, near Gate B35 and near Gate C53. An arrivals assistance point is located by the orange lifts. Heathrow also provides accessible toilets, assistance call points, support for passengers with hidden disabilities and a Changing Places facility after security near Gate A21.
Passengers can request help with check-in, security screening, moving between the terminal buildings and boarding their aircraft. Visit Heathrow's official assistance pages for the latest arrangements.
Getting There
Heathrow Terminal 5 is accessible by Heathrow Express, the Elizabeth line, London Underground, bus, coach, car and taxi. Heathrow Express provides a direct rail connection to London Paddington, while the Elizabeth line serves central London and destinations beyond. The Piccadilly line also connects Terminal 5 with central London, with the Underground station located in the basement of the terminal.
Drivers can reach Terminal 5 via the M4 and M25 motorways, following signs for Terminal 5 and their designated car park or drop-off area. Local buses, long-distance coaches, licensed taxis and private hire vehicles also serve the terminal. Check transport timetables, traffic conditions and your parking confirmation before travelling.
Fast-track security lane
Heathrow Terminal 5 offers Fast Track security access for eligible passengers, providing a dedicated route through the security screening area. Access may be included with certain airline tickets, frequent flyer benefits or other qualifying arrangements, depending on the current conditions.
Passengers using Fast Track must still complete all required security checks, and the service does not guarantee a particular waiting time. Check Heathrow's official website and your airline's guidance for current eligibility, booking options and availability.
Push chairs and child seats
Families travelling through Heathrow Terminal 5 can bring pushchairs and child car seats, subject to their airline's baggage rules. Many airlines allow pushchairs to be taken through security and handed over at the boarding gate, although arrangements vary by carrier and destination.
Pushchairs and child seats must undergo security screening, and larger items may require additional checks. Before travelling, confirm whether your pushchair will be returned at the aircraft or collected from baggage reclaim when you arrive at your destination.
Family assistance lanes
Heathrow Terminal 5 provides assistance for families travelling with babies, young children and pushchairs during security screening. Passengers who need additional help can speak to airport staff, who will direct them to the most suitable screening lane.
Pushchairs, car seats and other family equipment must undergo the required security checks, and additional screening may be necessary. Dedicated family or assistance lane arrangements can change according to operational conditions, so follow the instructions provided by security staff.
Airport shopping
Heathrow Terminal 5 offers a wide range of shops selling travel essentials, fashion, beauty products, electronics, gifts and duty-free items. Passengers can browse retailers including Boots and World Duty Free, alongside other shops offering clothing, accessories, snacks and last-minute travel essentials.
Most of the main shopping facilities are located in Terminal 5A, although additional outlets may be available in the satellite buildings. Opening hours and retailer availability can change, so check Heathrow's official Terminal 5 shopping directory before travelling. check out the shops that T5 has to offer here.
Where to eat
Heathrow Terminal 5 offers a wide choice of cafés, restaurants, bars and takeaway outlets, with options ranging from coffee and quick snacks to sit-down meals. Food and drink facilities are available before and after security, with a particularly broad selection in the main Terminal 5A departure lounge.
Some dining options are also available in the satellite buildings, although the choice varies by location and time of day. Check Heathrow's official Terminal 5 restaurant directory for current outlets, menus and opening hours, check out the full list here.
Top Tip
If your flight departs from a B or C gate, consider eating in the main Terminal 5A departure lounge before taking the transit system. Allow enough time to reach your gate and check restaurant opening hours for early or late flights.
Area for kids
Heathrow Terminal 5 provides a free Stay & Play area for families travelling with young children. The play area is located after security in the main Terminal 5A departure lounge, near Gate A7, and offers a space for children to play before boarding.
Heathrow has listed its Stay & Play facilities as open daily from 06:00 to 21:00, although opening arrangements may change. Children must remain under adult supervision while using the facilities. Check Heathrow's current Terminal 5 map for the latest location and availability.
Wi-Fi access
Heathrow Terminal 5 provides free WiFi throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to browse online, check flight information, access digital boarding passes and stay in touch before travelling.
To connect, select Heathrow Wi-Fi from the available networks on your phone, tablet or laptop, then follow the on-screen instructions to register and start using the service. WiFi is available across the terminal, including the main departure areas and satellite buildings. You can find the essential information here.
Top Tip
Download your boarding pass and important travel documents before leaving home so you can access them offline if needed. Use Heathrow's official WiFi network rather than connecting to an unfamiliar public network.
Charging mobile devices
Heathrow Terminal 5 provides charging facilities for mobile phones, tablets and other electronic devices at selected locations throughout the terminal. Charging points are available in passenger areas, although their exact locations, connections and availability may vary.
Bring a suitable charging cable or portable power bank and check your airline's rules for carrying spare lithium batteries. If you need to charge a device before departure, ask airport staff for directions to the nearest available charging point.
Baby changing facilities
Heathrow Terminal 5 provides baby changing facilities in designated areas throughout the terminal, including locations before and after security. Facilities are signposted and may include dedicated baby care rooms or changing areas within selected toilets.
Families travelling with babies should allow additional time for feeding and changing before boarding. Check Heathrow's official Terminal 5 map or ask airport staff for directions to the nearest available facilities, particularly if your flight departs from a satellite building.
Luggage Trollies
Luggage trolleys are available free of charge at Heathrow Terminal 5 to help passengers transport suitcases and other bags between designated collection points, check-in areas and arrivals facilities.
Trolley availability may vary depending on demand and location. Follow airport signage or ask staff for directions to the nearest collection point, particularly if you're travelling with several large bags. You can find the essential luggage trolley information here.
Top Tip
If you're travelling with several large bags, look for a free luggage trolley collection point before entering the terminal. Remember that trolleys cannot be taken through every part of the airport.
Luggage Lockers
Heathrow Terminal 5 offers staffed luggage storage through Excess Baggage Company, allowing passengers to leave bags while they wait for a flight or spend time outside the airport. The service is located in the arrivals area before security, close to UK arrivals.
Storage is available for different periods, subject to the provider's conditions and security checks. Opening hours, prices and booking arrangements may change, so check Excess Baggage Company's latest information before travelling. Heathrow does not offer traditional self-service luggage lockers for general passenger use.
Pharmacies
Heathrow Terminal 5 has Boots pharmacies before and after security, offering health and beauty products, toiletries, over-the-counter medicines and travel essentials. The Boots pharmacy before security can also dispense prescriptions, although availability and opening hours should be confirmed in advance.
Passengers requiring medication should ideally arrange prescriptions before travelling. Keep essential medicines in your hand luggage and check Heathrow's security guidance when carrying liquid medication, medical equipment or temperature-sensitive treatments.
Top Tip
Heathrow Terminal 5 allows eligible liquids in individual containers of up to two litres through security. Baby milk, liquid medicines and other essential items can be carried subject to the relevant screening requirements, so there is no general need to buy baby milk after security to avoid confiscation.
Showers
General public shower facilities are not currently confirmed as available in the main passenger areas of Heathrow Terminal 5. Some restricted-access facilities may provide showers, but availability and entry conditions vary.
Passengers who need shower facilities before or after their flight should confirm the available options directly with Heathrow Airport or their accommodation provider before travelling.
Chapel
Heathrow Terminal 5 provides multi-faith prayer rooms for passengers, visitors and airport staff, offering quiet spaces for prayer, meditation and reflection. These facilities welcome people of all faiths and none.
Before security, a temporary prayer room is currently available near Check-in Zone A. After security, prayer rooms are located near Gate A8 in Terminal 5A, Gate B34 in Terminal 5B and Gate C52 in Terminal 5C. Wudu facilities are available at the Check-in Zone A, Gate A8 and Gate B34 prayer rooms.
Follow airport signage or ask staff for directions to the nearest prayer room.
Viewing Areas
Heathrow Terminal 5 offers opportunities to watch aircraft movements from selected areas of the terminal, including seating areas and restaurants with views towards aircraft stands and taxiways. The large windows in parts of Terminal 5A provide views of airport activity, although visibility varies by location.
Some restaurants may offer views of aircraft arriving, departing or moving around the airport, but these should not be treated as guaranteed runway viewing areas. Check Heathrow's terminal map for suitable passenger seating and viewing locations.





