*Last updated on: 25 May 2021

COVID-19 Safety Measures at London Heathrow Airport

Every airport in the world has had to change the way it operates to deal with COVID-19, and the United Kingdom's largest airport is no exception. But don't worry because by reading the following COVID-19 safety measures at London Heathrow Airport, we will explain what travellers need to know before they they arrive at the airport.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers?

For starters, travellers should note that London Heathrow Airport has been certified with a 4-star safety rating for Covid measures by SkyTrax - one of the most respected industry watchdogs. Specific changes have included mandatory face coverings for those aged 11 and over, the need to fill out Passenger Locator Forms before arriving, and testing stations in Terminals 2 and 5. But generally speaking, the airport is functioning as normal.

Do immigration or security checkpoints have any new procedures?

If you are arriving at London Heathrow Airport from outside the UK, it is now necessary to fill out a form detailing your contact details. Travellers are required to submit the passenger locator form within 48 hours prior to arrive in the UK. International travelers are required to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken no earlier than three days before departure. Depending on where you are travelling from, the testing and quarantine requirements upon arrival in the UK will differ. Please ensure you have checked the status of the country you are travelling from before you fly.

Are there screening or testing facilities at London Heathrow Airport?

Travellers will find COVID-19 testing facilities in Terminals 2 and 5. These services at Heathrow Airport are provided by third-party test providers. Eligibility varies and those headed to some destinations won't be covered. Travellers can find more information on the Heathrow Airport Official page on who can take a test and how to make an appointment.

What are the social distancing and face covering policies at London Heathrow Airport?

All travellers arriving or departing from Heathrow Airport must cover their faces at all times inside the airport buildings. However, those aged 11 and under are exempt from this rule. Floor markings have been added in most spaces to enable social distancing, and as a general rule the airport advises that passengers stay a 'baggage trolley length' apart.

Does the airport have a clinic?

Alongside new Covid testing facilities, Heathrow Airport offers a medical center which is privately run and provides services like medicals for aviation professionals and bespoke covid testing. The clinic at London Heathrow Airport is not actually inside the airport perimeter, but is very close by if travellers require assistance.

How often is Heathrow Airport being cleaned during the Covid crisis?

The team at London Heathrow Airport has increased the frequency of cleaning to ensure that public spaces are as safe as possible. Cleaners use fogging methods to clean seats and handrails every evening, while changes have been made to the air conditioning units to ensure that air is purified constantly. Additionally, 600 hand sanitiser stations have been added throughout the airport.

Are shops and eateries open as normal at London Heathrow?

Generally speaking, yes. Almost all of the many shops and restaurants at London Heathrow Airport are open for business. There may be social distancing measures in place to keep diners apart or limit the numbers in stores, but virtually all businesses are open.

Are there any special guidelines or other information that travellers should be aware of?

Travellers with mobility issues or other special requirements can still access assistance services at Heathrow, and safety measures have been put in place to make these services as safe as possible. Parking continues as normal, although all parked vehicles are being sanitized with disinfectant mist, and transport via the London Underground or Heathrow Express rail connections continues to operate.

Are there any links to the government website for travellers?

If you need to find out more about transiting through London Heathrow Airport after your flight, the UK government may be able to help.