<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by DIAFlyer:
I'm doing a mile run to/from LHR in early December with a 3 hour stay.
Do I clear customs and check-in like normal, or is there a way to check-in without going through customs and security?
Any other helpful hints?</font>
I just returned yesterday from LHR with a 90 minute turnaround time in T3 on AA. I assume you are on UA - exact same procedures apply.
DO NOT go thru immigration and customs unless you want to complicate things.
When you disembark, follow the signs to Flight Connections and you will find a small security station. They will check your ticket, passport and scan your stuff. Five minutes tops (maybe 10 at peak times).
Then proceed to the flight connections check-in desks (just off to the side of the mall that LHR's departure lounge has become) and get your boarding pass for your return flight.
Then proceed thru the duty-free shopping departure lounge to your gate* and fly back.
*If you are entitled to lounge access at your club/lounge, etc. then visit it for a drink/shower/food before heading to your gate.
Very few AA planes turn around to the city of origin - I assume that the same is true with UA. Accordingly, be careful with layover time - don't cut it too close. 3 hours is more than enough, IME.
Of course, try to upgrade. If you upgrade with miles, you have to pay the add'l UK departure tax, but if you upgrade with SWUs, the airline usually pays the tax (AA certainly does).
Have fun.
