Another “premium” experience at T5 again today.

Arrived on AA194 from PHX into T3. We landed early but didn’t get on stand until 1200 - and with a 1320 departure on BA1328 to Newcastle I was a little concerned whether I’d make my connection.

Bus from T3 to T5 was fine, as was immigration.

No fast track security yet again. HAL stated it’s been closed since COVID which is clearly false.

The queues for security stretched back into Flight Connections beyond where the escalators up to Fast Track are. HAL staff were saying I’d still make my 1320 flight even with less than 50 minutes till departure, let alone boarding.

However, some common sense prevailed and I was allowed up the escalator to what would have been Fast Track security. It was just as bad up there with the queue clearly out into the check-in area. Both the new scanners were in use and most people seemed to have their act together for a change so the queue moved pretty quickly.

Then it was off to A4 for the dreaded bus out to remote stand 527 for the flight up to NCL. There was the usual checking of bags = pre-boarding routine which makes little sense as if you’re checking a bag you don’t need overhead bin space and hence don’t need to pre-board.

Golds were called forward to board the first bus along with the usual pre-boarders. Not sure if any other priority groups also got on the first bus but it left full & standing. The second bus has just disgorged its passengers and we’re still nowhere near ready to go.

I suppose I should be thankful for small mercies in that the flight is at least operating!