Feb 5, 2015, 10:54 am
Last edit by: stifle
Please edit or add information to this wiki as necessary.
Link to LHR page on aa.com
Link to London-Heathrow web pages
Link to Wikipedia page on LHR
Link to FT - AA thread London Heathrow (LHR) <-> Gatwick (LGW) Transport / Transfer (master thread)
The vast majority of arriving passengers with a passport from the European Union, Switzerland or, effective 20 May 2019, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea or USA can now use arrival immigration eGates without any fee or pre-registration requirement. But for those transiting LHR with a non-UK/non-Ireland destination and no luggage to claim during transit at LHR, the eGates are generally irrelevant since most such passengers don’t enter the UK-Ireland Common Travel Area.
NOTE: Connecting flights between Terminal 5 and Terminal 3 - please allow a minimum 1 hour 30 minutes between flights.
If you are unsure which terminal your connecting flight departs from, see "Which terminal does my flight depart from / arrive?"
For gate to gate connection assistance in T-3, AA Five Star Service can be used (fee, must be in AA Business or First on incoming or outbound flight). For interterminal assistance, see https://www.heathrow.com/airport-gui...cierge-service for Heathrow Meet and Assist.
LHR is composed of four terminals (Terminal 1 is now permanently closed). American Airlines and many oneworld airlines (e.g. AY, BA, CX, IB, JL, QF, RJ, UL) use Terminal 3. MH and QR use terminal 4. BA uses Terminals 3 and 5. These terminals are not connected - you can not walk from one to the other. Use this tool to see where your next flight departs / arrives.
Transferring/ Connections at LHR interterminal can be done three ways:
Link to interactive custom Heathrow Flight Connections Guide
1) Landside: exit your terminal and process HM immigration and customs as if you were arriving in the UK, then take the free train or busses connecting to other terminals. With most hotels, if you are staying overnight you will most likely utilise the "Heathrow Hoppa" busses costing £6 for one person or £11 for a family one way, £11 for one person and £21 for a family return; family is up to 2 adults and 3 children. A small discount is available for buying your ticket at a ticket machine in select hotels or via the HH website. You must proceed landside if planning to use the AA (or BA) Arrivals Lounge, which close at 1400 hrs / 2 PM as these are landside. (See post no. 627, here, for local land & hotel transport options.)
Inter-terminal landside connections can be via rail (free) or walking, depending on the terminals. See the diagram for Heathrow Express terminal connections, free when you are traveling within the airport's confines. See here You can also travel between the terminals, or Hatton Cross station, free of charge via the Piccadilly line, but you must touch a contactless payment card/Apple/Google Pay or Oyster card on the faregates at the start and end of your journey. When changing terminals via Heathrow Express or Elizabeth line you can either do the same or get a free paper ticket.
2) Airside:
Follow the signage to Flight Connections, where you will proceed a bus waiting area at airport ground level and take a bus to your next terminal, where you will proceed through boarding pass, carryon check a standard airport security check. Now you are ready to catch your next flight. Flight connections Minimum Connect Times are ordinarily 75 - 90 minutes (the latter for connections between T3 and T5).
NOTE: You must be at your connecting gate 20 minutes prior to departure. If you must recover bags and re-check (e.g. oneworld to non-oneworld or LCC) you must check your baggage in at least 45 minutes prior to departure.
Use this tool available from this page on LHR's website that include a step by step guide through Flight Connections. The page also offers videos. Use this tool to see where your next flight departs / arrives.[/quote]
Typical Terminal 3 to Terminal 5 Flight Connections path:
T3–>T5 see posts 674, 675.1. Welcome to Heathrow!: On leaving the aircraft, please follow the purple signs for Flight Connections.
2. Flight Connections bus: A dedicated bus will transfer you between terminals. Buses are free and depart every six to ten minutes.
3. Airline desks: Need to visit your airline's ticket desk? You'll find it here.
4. Ready to fly: Staff will check that you're in the right place, your hand baggage meets airline regulations, and you have time to catch your onward flight.
5. Hand baggage check: At this point your hand baggage will be checked to ensure it conforms to UK and EU regulations. Please be aware that liquids in containers over 100ml are not allowed through security.
6. Security screening: You will pass through security screening at this point. If you are a non-UK resident and have goods to declare to HM Customs, please use the Customs telephone before security control.
7. Departure lounge: Check the screens in the departure lounge, which will be updated when your gate opens and again when your flight is ready for boarding.
NOTE: Flight departure gates are listed in only sufficient time to get to the gate, not hours (or often an hour) prior to departure.
Typical Terminal 5 to Terminal 3 Flight Connections path:1. Welcome to Heathrow!: On leaving the aircraft, please follow the purple signs for Flight Connections.
2. Flight Connections bus: A dedicated bus will transfer you between terminals. Buses are free and depart every six to ten minutes.
NOTE: As there is a new AA desk at the bus boarding point, you can get your AA boarding pass and pass the AA oral security questioning while you await the bus.
3. Hand baggage check: At this point your hand baggage will be checked to ensure it conforms to UK and EU regulations. Please be aware that liquids in containers over 100ml are not allowed through security.
4. Security screening: You will pass through security screening at this point. If you are a non-UK resident and have goods to declare to HM Customs, please use the Customs telephone before security control.
5. Airline desks: Need to visit your airline's ticket desk? You'll find it here. But see 2A if flying AA.
6. Departure lounge: Check the screens in the departure lounge, which will be updated when your gate opens and again when your flight is ready for boarding.
Lounges:
Airside lounges at LHR are designated departure lounges. You use the lounge in the terminal you're departing from – arriving and departing passengers are separated, so it's not possible (for example) to use a terminal 5 lounge if you are arriving in terminal 5 and departing from terminal 3.
Terminal 3 lounges include:
Airside, departure lounges:
American Airlines Flagship / First Class Lounge - Lounge Zone H
American Airlines Admirals Club - Lounge Zone H
British Airways Galleries First and Club lounges - Lounge Zone F
Cathay Pacific First and Business lounges near Gate 11
Qantas Airways London Lounge - Lounge B / Gate
Landside, for arriving AA and BA long haul passengers who flew in first or business class, or any class if oneworld Emerald (no guest)
American Airlines Arrivals Lounge (recently renovated)
Terminal 5 lounges:
Airside lounges:
British Airways Concorde Room (longhaul BA First)
British Airways Galleries First Lounge - South Concourse
British Airways Galleries Club lounges both North & South Concourses
British Airways Galleries Club lounge T5B Satellite
Landside, for arriving BA First/Club World passengers and oneworld emerald members in World Traveller or World Traveller Plus (no guest)
British Airways Galleries Arrivals Lounge
For hours, access, amenities, etc. consult the oneworld lounge access tool here
Link to the most useful London Heathrow International Airport website. Click on "Connections" for a connection assistance tool.
For long connections where you might wish to go to London, you can use "the tube" (Underground, ~50 minutes, cheapest), busses to various locations, taxis (the most expensive, about 45 minutes) or "minicabs" and other hired cars, the Heathrow Express (15 minutes to Paddington station) or Heathrow Connect (30 minutes to Paddington). You can also Uber or bus to nearby Windsor town, and with sufficient time even tour Windsor Castle.
For links to local and local hotels, other airports (such as Gatwick, ~1:30), railroad stations (Feltham, Watford, Woking and Reading), intercity coaches (such as Oxford) start at this page.
The Tube takes 50 minutes from the Central / Terminals 2/3, T-4 or T-5 stations using the Piccadilly Line. Link to LHR tube page; link to London Toolkit page on LHR and Piccadilly line; link to Transport for London page.
The Heathrow Express / HEX departs T-5 and takes 21 minutes (it stops at Central / T2/3, six minutes) and onward to Paddington (15 minutes, about 1/3 of the time a taxi would take, though a taxi or bus can tale longer in some traffic). The trains have 15 minute headway (depart every 15 minutes) and have baggage racks.
(If you stay at Hilton T-4, board HEX at T-5, go to Central / T-2/3, get off, take the connecting train to T-4 (4 minutes), all free. From T-4 follow the signs to the hotel, perhaps 10 minute walk by covered board walk).
The Elizabeth Line (formerly TfL Rail) costs less, takes 30 minutes to Paddington from the Heathrow stations, and continues to key central London destinations such as Tottenham Court Road and Liverpool Street.
This London Heathrow International Airport connection / transfer thread has been split off from the original thread, which can be read here: BA T5 <-> AA T3 transfer /connection at LHR / Heathrow (obsolete, trailing thread).
For other terminals please see ARCHIVE: BA T5 <-> AA T3 transfer /connection at LHR / Heathrow
Also see this page for MCT information.
Link to LHR page on aa.com
Link to London-Heathrow web pages
Link to Wikipedia page on LHR
Link to FT - AA thread London Heathrow (LHR) <-> Gatwick (LGW) Transport / Transfer (master thread)
The vast majority of arriving passengers with a passport from the European Union, Switzerland or, effective 20 May 2019, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea or USA can now use arrival immigration eGates without any fee or pre-registration requirement. But for those transiting LHR with a non-UK/non-Ireland destination and no luggage to claim during transit at LHR, the eGates are generally irrelevant since most such passengers don’t enter the UK-Ireland Common Travel Area.
NOTE: Connecting flights between Terminal 5 and Terminal 3 - please allow a minimum 1 hour 30 minutes between flights.
If you are unsure which terminal your connecting flight departs from, see "Which terminal does my flight depart from / arrive?"
For gate to gate connection assistance in T-3, AA Five Star Service can be used (fee, must be in AA Business or First on incoming or outbound flight). For interterminal assistance, see https://www.heathrow.com/airport-gui...cierge-service for Heathrow Meet and Assist.
LHR is composed of four terminals (Terminal 1 is now permanently closed). American Airlines and many oneworld airlines (e.g. AY, BA, CX, IB, JL, QF, RJ, UL) use Terminal 3. MH and QR use terminal 4. BA uses Terminals 3 and 5. These terminals are not connected - you can not walk from one to the other. Use this tool to see where your next flight departs / arrives.
Transferring/ Connections at LHR interterminal can be done three ways:
Link to interactive custom Heathrow Flight Connections Guide
1) Landside: exit your terminal and process HM immigration and customs as if you were arriving in the UK, then take the free train or busses connecting to other terminals. With most hotels, if you are staying overnight you will most likely utilise the "Heathrow Hoppa" busses costing £6 for one person or £11 for a family one way, £11 for one person and £21 for a family return; family is up to 2 adults and 3 children. A small discount is available for buying your ticket at a ticket machine in select hotels or via the HH website. You must proceed landside if planning to use the AA (or BA) Arrivals Lounge, which close at 1400 hrs / 2 PM as these are landside. (See post no. 627, here, for local land & hotel transport options.)
Inter-terminal landside connections can be via rail (free) or walking, depending on the terminals. See the diagram for Heathrow Express terminal connections, free when you are traveling within the airport's confines. See here You can also travel between the terminals, or Hatton Cross station, free of charge via the Piccadilly line, but you must touch a contactless payment card/Apple/Google Pay or Oyster card on the faregates at the start and end of your journey. When changing terminals via Heathrow Express or Elizabeth line you can either do the same or get a free paper ticket.
2) Airside:
Follow the signage to Flight Connections, where you will proceed a bus waiting area at airport ground level and take a bus to your next terminal, where you will proceed through boarding pass, carryon check a standard airport security check. Now you are ready to catch your next flight. Flight connections Minimum Connect Times are ordinarily 75 - 90 minutes (the latter for connections between T3 and T5).
NOTE: You must be at your connecting gate 20 minutes prior to departure. If you must recover bags and re-check (e.g. oneworld to non-oneworld or LCC) you must check your baggage in at least 45 minutes prior to departure.
Use this tool available from this page on LHR's website that include a step by step guide through Flight Connections. The page also offers videos. Use this tool to see where your next flight departs / arrives.[/quote]
Typical Terminal 3 to Terminal 5 Flight Connections path:
T3–>T5 see posts 674, 675.1. Welcome to Heathrow!: On leaving the aircraft, please follow the purple signs for Flight Connections.
2. Flight Connections bus: A dedicated bus will transfer you between terminals. Buses are free and depart every six to ten minutes.
3. Airline desks: Need to visit your airline's ticket desk? You'll find it here.
4. Ready to fly: Staff will check that you're in the right place, your hand baggage meets airline regulations, and you have time to catch your onward flight.
5. Hand baggage check: At this point your hand baggage will be checked to ensure it conforms to UK and EU regulations. Please be aware that liquids in containers over 100ml are not allowed through security.
6. Security screening: You will pass through security screening at this point. If you are a non-UK resident and have goods to declare to HM Customs, please use the Customs telephone before security control.
7. Departure lounge: Check the screens in the departure lounge, which will be updated when your gate opens and again when your flight is ready for boarding.
NOTE: Flight departure gates are listed in only sufficient time to get to the gate, not hours (or often an hour) prior to departure.
Typical Terminal 5 to Terminal 3 Flight Connections path:1. Welcome to Heathrow!: On leaving the aircraft, please follow the purple signs for Flight Connections.
2. Flight Connections bus: A dedicated bus will transfer you between terminals. Buses are free and depart every six to ten minutes.
NOTE: As there is a new AA desk at the bus boarding point, you can get your AA boarding pass and pass the AA oral security questioning while you await the bus.
3. Hand baggage check: At this point your hand baggage will be checked to ensure it conforms to UK and EU regulations. Please be aware that liquids in containers over 100ml are not allowed through security.
4. Security screening: You will pass through security screening at this point. If you are a non-UK resident and have goods to declare to HM Customs, please use the Customs telephone before security control.
5. Airline desks: Need to visit your airline's ticket desk? You'll find it here. But see 2A if flying AA.
6. Departure lounge: Check the screens in the departure lounge, which will be updated when your gate opens and again when your flight is ready for boarding.
Lounges:
Airside lounges at LHR are designated departure lounges. You use the lounge in the terminal you're departing from – arriving and departing passengers are separated, so it's not possible (for example) to use a terminal 5 lounge if you are arriving in terminal 5 and departing from terminal 3.
Terminal 3 lounges include:
Airside, departure lounges:
American Airlines Flagship / First Class Lounge - Lounge Zone H
American Airlines Admirals Club - Lounge Zone H
British Airways Galleries First and Club lounges - Lounge Zone F
Cathay Pacific First and Business lounges near Gate 11
Qantas Airways London Lounge - Lounge B / Gate
Landside, for arriving AA and BA long haul passengers who flew in first or business class, or any class if oneworld Emerald (no guest)
American Airlines Arrivals Lounge (recently renovated)
Terminal 5 lounges:
Airside lounges:
British Airways Concorde Room (longhaul BA First)
British Airways Galleries First Lounge - South Concourse
British Airways Galleries Club lounges both North & South Concourses
British Airways Galleries Club lounge T5B Satellite
Landside, for arriving BA First/Club World passengers and oneworld emerald members in World Traveller or World Traveller Plus (no guest)
British Airways Galleries Arrivals Lounge
For hours, access, amenities, etc. consult the oneworld lounge access tool here
Link to the most useful London Heathrow International Airport website. Click on "Connections" for a connection assistance tool.
For long connections where you might wish to go to London, you can use "the tube" (Underground, ~50 minutes, cheapest), busses to various locations, taxis (the most expensive, about 45 minutes) or "minicabs" and other hired cars, the Heathrow Express (15 minutes to Paddington station) or Heathrow Connect (30 minutes to Paddington). You can also Uber or bus to nearby Windsor town, and with sufficient time even tour Windsor Castle.
For links to local and local hotels, other airports (such as Gatwick, ~1:30), railroad stations (Feltham, Watford, Woking and Reading), intercity coaches (such as Oxford) start at this page.
The Tube takes 50 minutes from the Central / Terminals 2/3, T-4 or T-5 stations using the Piccadilly Line. Link to LHR tube page; link to London Toolkit page on LHR and Piccadilly line; link to Transport for London page.
The Heathrow Express / HEX departs T-5 and takes 21 minutes (it stops at Central / T2/3, six minutes) and onward to Paddington (15 minutes, about 1/3 of the time a taxi would take, though a taxi or bus can tale longer in some traffic). The trains have 15 minute headway (depart every 15 minutes) and have baggage racks.
(If you stay at Hilton T-4, board HEX at T-5, go to Central / T-2/3, get off, take the connecting train to T-4 (4 minutes), all free. From T-4 follow the signs to the hotel, perhaps 10 minute walk by covered board walk).
The Elizabeth Line (formerly TfL Rail) costs less, takes 30 minutes to Paddington from the Heathrow stations, and continues to key central London destinations such as Tottenham Court Road and Liverpool Street.
This London Heathrow International Airport connection / transfer thread has been split off from the original thread, which can be read here: BA T5 <-> AA T3 transfer /connection at LHR / Heathrow (obsolete, trailing thread).
For other terminals please see ARCHIVE: BA T5 <-> AA T3 transfer /connection at LHR / Heathrow
Also see this page for MCT information.
GUIDE: LHR / London Heathrow, Connection, MCT inc. AA T3 <--> BA/IB T5
Feb 10, 2018, 8:00 am
#571
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: NYC LAX RDU
Programs: US-Plt;Concierge key; American AAirpass; Delta Silver;Starwood - Platinum; Amex Cent
Posts: 710
I'd do AA and connect. Coach product is much better on AA than on the BA 747...also, I have had a few NIGHTMARE customs lines on BA returning to JFK (I do not qualify for Global Entry). I've never had too long of a wait for customs at JFK T8.
Feb 10, 2018, 8:22 am
#572
Join Date: May 2004
Location: DFW-In Plano & CDG-In the 11th
Programs: DL Diamond, AA revenue negative, Bonvoy Titanium +, Avis likes me
Posts: 3,209
Imho
British Airways (never shortened to just 'British') Munich flights depart from T5.
As you are starting at JFK if you fly BA you will be able to do a T5-T5 transit which is simple and involves a passport check (not immigration) and security.
If you fly AA in to T3 you are still going to have to get from T3 to T5
As you are starting at JFK if you fly BA you will be able to do a T5-T5 transit which is simple and involves a passport check (not immigration) and security.
If you fly AA in to T3 you are still going to have to get from T3 to T5
There is NOTHING simple at Heathrow. Ever.
Rather than run down a very long litany of what's wrong (to me) with LHR, I will quote a client of mine after after taking him to Oktoberfest and changing in LHR-"I always wondered how a third world airport works.".
Based on my experiences, I might suggest (because one should not complain without a possible solution):
1. Fly or train into PHL and on to MUC, as suggested.
2. Fly into FRA, take the train into town and on to MUC. The German rail system is NOT Amtrak!
3. If time is not an issue, fly into ZRH and drive.
4. (Longshot) If you will be going to MUC often (like alot!) talk to your corporate travel department about a waiver to Aer Lingus. We have friends who live in Milford and Paris and just love BDL! Saves time AND $$$.
5. BA is an option if you just don't care.
In any case, bon chance.
Feb 10, 2018, 8:24 am
#573
Join Date: May 2004
Location: DFW-In Plano & CDG-In the 11th
Programs: DL Diamond, AA revenue negative, Bonvoy Titanium +, Avis likes me
Posts: 3,209
Feb 10, 2018, 8:59 am
#574
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: LAX
Programs: AA Lifetime Gold but PlatPro thanks to LPs
Posts: 4,439
Hello there! Great community this is!
I've been a United flyer for a number of years but owing to corporate contracts we are now on American which sucks as our partner firm in Europe is in Germany.
I am flying to and from Munich next month and need to decide between American through Heathrow or British through Heathrow. I hear moving from terminal 5 to 3 is beyond annoying.
I've been a United flyer for a number of years but owing to corporate contracts we are now on American which sucks as our partner firm in Europe is in Germany.
I am flying to and from Munich next month and need to decide between American through Heathrow or British through Heathrow. I hear moving from terminal 5 to 3 is beyond annoying.
At Heathrow everyone, even incoming passengers, have to go through the British security in order to enter the terminal where their connecting flight departs. In other words, if you connect T5 to T5, you still have to go through T5 security. (It's the same thing for international passengers entering the United States, then connecting on a domestic flight. They must go through the US TSA in order to get to the domestic flight gate.)
If you connect T3 to T5, the only additional issue is the Flight Connections bus. Personally, I am so used to the bus it doesn't even register with me as "annoying". I actually like to get outside the climate-controlled airport environment and breathe fresh air for a few minutes.
Everyone connecting in Heathrow should follow the purple "Flight Connections" signs. This signage directs you to either the terminal security or the bus to another terminal. (I will mention in passing that Heathrow has, in my opinion, excellent directional signage. They take Wayfinding very seriously. Heathrow, like Atlanta, is cited as an example of good wayfinding in various publications.)
As for lounges. I am not a real lounge lizard, so I'll just mention what I know, and I do invite correction or clarification from those who have better knowledge than I do.
BA lounges are not paid membership lounges, like the Admirals Club in AA-world. BA lounges are restricted to elite status fliers. In other words:
Aadvantage Platinum members (Exec Plat, Plat Pro) flying on international tickets can get in. (That means you.)
Aadvantage Gold members (as well as anyone else) on Coach tickets cannot get in. (That would be me.)
Anyone flying premium class (business, first) on an international ticket can get in. (Through a quirk of fate, that was me, twice.)
The BA lounges do not have paid day passes, as does the AC.
In Heathrow T5 there are two BA lounges, North and South. There are various lounges within lounges, such as a first class only lounge, etc. The basic lounge available to people such as you are called Galleries. I have been in the Galleries North and South exactly once. Not great, not bad in my opinion. The North Galleries was really crowded the one time I was there.
In Heathrow T3 there is an AC as well as BA and others. With your international ticket and Plat status, I know you can get into the AC. I do not know if you can lounge-hop to the others. I have heard the other lounges are "better", but with an AC day pass I am perfectly happy in the T3 AC. I have an early flight in from Düsseldorf. I get to the AC, turn in my pass, take a shower, have breakfast, then wait about an hour or so before heading to my gate for my AA flight back to Los Angeles.
There is one thing you must know about Heathrow. They do not announce departure gates way in advance. The airport is too busy for that. All passengers have to wait in the departure area (elite lounge or main area with the stores and riff-raff) until the gate is announced on the TV monitors. Once the gate is announced, you have to make some haste to your departure gate.
Ideally, you would wait in the T5 North or South BA Galleries lounge if your departure gate is in the North or South end of the terminal. Good luck. Both times I had access to the Galleries lounge I picked the wrong one, and had to walk across the entire terminal to my departure gate. Think you can just look at the schedule and find your departure gate from past flights? Forget it. I used the Heathrow app to track "my" DUS flight for the three weeks before departing, in hopes of noticing some kind of pattern as to departure gate assignment. There was no pattern. It was pretty much random across T5A, and left a few times from T5B.
Personally, I would not go out of my way to avoid Heathrow. I am used to it, know where to go and how to deal with it. I don't see it as any particular hassle. YMMV.
Feb 10, 2018, 9:19 am
#575
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Mar 2004
Location: SJC
Programs: AA EXP, BA Silver, Hyatt Globalist, Hilton diamond, Marriott Platinum
Posts: 33,533
I know that this is bucking the general trend here, but we love Heathrow and seek it out for connections. The connections are simple (even if the lines can occasionally be long- as is the case anywhere), and even the T3-T5, while longer due to the bus ride,is very straightforward. Easy to navigate and a very nice airport- particularly T5, which is where you'll be flying from to MUC.
On the outbound, of course, you will only have access to T5 lounges whether you fly AA or BA into LHR. On the return, it will depend. The T5 BA lounges are quite nice. In T3, you'll have a nice BA lounge as well. The CX lounge is also very nice and even the Admiral's Club (while not as good as the others, IMO) is not bad.
We've been flying BA to LHR lately as they have non-stops from both SFO and SJC, so haven't experienced the T3 lounges recently. Assuming that they are still much the same.
We were in T5 last month and again next week, so very fresh opinions of their lounges.
Cheers.
On the outbound, of course, you will only have access to T5 lounges whether you fly AA or BA into LHR. On the return, it will depend. The T5 BA lounges are quite nice. In T3, you'll have a nice BA lounge as well. The CX lounge is also very nice and even the Admiral's Club (while not as good as the others, IMO) is not bad.
We've been flying BA to LHR lately as they have non-stops from both SFO and SJC, so haven't experienced the T3 lounges recently. Assuming that they are still much the same.
We were in T5 last month and again next week, so very fresh opinions of their lounges.
Cheers.
Feb 10, 2018, 9:21 am
#576
Join Date: Jul 2008
Posts: 794
Lhr is actually a fairly efficient airport considering the size and volume of passengers which is far more than I would say of phl especially if you are in new haven. I would book on America even if you end up onba metal. I find american easier to deal with in case of issues though if you have a tight connection ba does a good job of meeting planes and expediting those with tight connections thru Lhr by this I mean they will get you thru security recheck quickly by escorting connecting passengers on tight connections thru
as to to the actual flight if I was in coach I would fly American though if you are willing to spend extra ba is usually more likely to present an upgrade opportunity though not ever a real bargain if you are flying enough to reach aa status the swu are pretty easy to use and I can normally find availability in the jfk Lhr route in the end I just go by schedule
as to to the actual flight if I was in coach I would fly American though if you are willing to spend extra ba is usually more likely to present an upgrade opportunity though not ever a real bargain if you are flying enough to reach aa status the swu are pretty easy to use and I can normally find availability in the jfk Lhr route in the end I just go by schedule
Feb 10, 2018, 9:34 am
#577
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Austin
Programs: AA EXP +2MM- LT PLT! HH Diamond
Posts: 6,087
If you are sticking to flying through JFK, remember that you'll have access to the AA Flagship Lounge if you chose AA vs. BA. Although inter-Terminal transfers are easier at LHR, the T3-T5 bus transfer is not the end of the world. Just add approx. 20 minutes to the process. Bonus on the return is that if flying AA, you'll have access to 4 different lounges in T3, AA, BA, CX, and QF, and the 2 latter ones are getting great reviews.
Finally, as an AA PLT, you are in a better position to potentially get an Op-UP to Premium Economy when flying AA.
Finally, as an AA PLT, you are in a better position to potentially get an Op-UP to Premium Economy when flying AA.
Feb 10, 2018, 9:57 am
#579
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Gatwick, UK
Programs: UA *G, BA Silver
Posts: 1,673
If you can get Premium Economy on BA then that is a better option - earn more miles and always a chance to get an opup or an airport cash upgrade.
Transiting through Heathrow isn't that bad - you'll have lounge access so can give yourself plenty of time. T5-T5 is definitely easier and faster than T5-T3, but the choice of lounges in T3 is better (four to choose from rather than one).
Feb 10, 2018, 10:26 am
#580
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: SLC/HEL/Anywhere with a Beach
Programs: Marriott Ambassador; AA EXP 3MM; AS MVP, Hilton Gold, CH-47/UH-60/C-23/C-130 VET
Posts: 5,234
I just did the T3/T5 shuffle a couple of weeks ago. It's not a big deal and I'm sure what the fuss is about it. If connecting at DFW, I take the train between terminals, at LGA, I take a bus between concourses, at LAX, I take a bus between the main terminal and the remote. It's a 15 minute bus ride.
And yes, you have to reclear security but I have to do that with international connections anywhere and I find LHR security to be more efficient than the average TSA.
That being said, AA is the way to go if you're plat.
And, I've done New Haven to PHL for international connections, its really easy. Fares out of New Haven can fluctuate wildly because there are only a few flights but PHL isn't a bad place to connect. I avoid it because I don't like LUS aircraft, but my last few connections there -- domestic and international -- have been fine. JFK has a flagship lounge but you won't be able to get five colleagues in based on status. JFK can take two hours to get too in the afternoon from New Haven as well.. The New Haven airport is from the 50's and it doesn't feel like you're leaving for an international trip but security is only 5 minutes to get through, you save a two hour drive to JFK, and the fares can be pretty decent. Plus, PHL has a Centurion Lounge. I wonder how AA can still operate at New Haven but on the last flight as I listened around, most people were heading out internationally.
And yes, you have to reclear security but I have to do that with international connections anywhere and I find LHR security to be more efficient than the average TSA.
That being said, AA is the way to go if you're plat.
And, I've done New Haven to PHL for international connections, its really easy. Fares out of New Haven can fluctuate wildly because there are only a few flights but PHL isn't a bad place to connect. I avoid it because I don't like LUS aircraft, but my last few connections there -- domestic and international -- have been fine. JFK has a flagship lounge but you won't be able to get five colleagues in based on status. JFK can take two hours to get too in the afternoon from New Haven as well.. The New Haven airport is from the 50's and it doesn't feel like you're leaving for an international trip but security is only 5 minutes to get through, you save a two hour drive to JFK, and the fares can be pretty decent. Plus, PHL has a Centurion Lounge. I wonder how AA can still operate at New Haven but on the last flight as I listened around, most people were heading out internationally.
Feb 10, 2018, 10:27 am
#581
Join Date: Apr 2000
Location: LAX and LHR. UA lifetime Gold 1.9MM 1K , DL Gold Medallion, HHonors Gold, Marriott Gold, Avis President's Club
Posts: 3,592
Yes, a third world airport. Have been saying this for years. But BAA is complacent to the nth degree, alas. Even the new Queen's Terminal (T2) has so many basic design flaws that it's difficult to know where to start.... The people who design these facilities clearly never have to actually use them.
Feb 10, 2018, 10:56 am
#582
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: DCA
Programs: UA LT 1K, AA EXP, Bonvoy LT Titan, Avis PC, Hilton Gold
Posts: 9,658
First, you don't indicate your status. Flying through LHR isn't all that bad in my view.
If you are EXP - you will get access to BA First Lounge in Term 5, which is really the Emerald Lounge, since if you are in true F, you get into the Concorde room.
Yes Terminal 5 to terminal 3 isn't that bad about a 11 minute bus ride. You do have to clear security again in Terminal 5, but even if you arrived on BA in Terminal 5 you need to clear security again. On connection you don't have to go to immigration and enter UK.
I flew DCA-JFK-LHR-AMS two days ago. On AA to LHR the BA to AMS (with an AA ticket on the AA Code share number from LHR - AMS. But the LHR-AMS was cancelled before I left the USA - and what followed has been a disaster with AA IT.
I got a Text from BA that the LHR-AMS was cancelled, called AA - they said it was still flying, but I knew better using expert flyer. I told AA EXP to call BA, then did, and then acknowledged that it was cancel. But while on the phone, someone other than AA was in the record - likely BA and BA had rebooked (still in Business class) from JFK to LCY (London City airport on an A318 in J) then to Rotterdam. AMS was closed in the am due to weather. I did not want that - so after BA left the record I had AA put me back on the AA flight with my same class and seat. Best AA could get was 2 days later on on LHR - AMS.
I called AA again after I checked in at DCA my first segment and the EXP desk could get me on a same day but not until 7:35pm 13 hours after arrival. Took the agent over 30 minutes to get the new ticket issued which then had a new BA PNR. Upon arrival in LHR, checked in at BA transfer desk and someone had moved us up to the 2:20pm flight. First flight flying out of LHR To AMS was at 1pm - morning flights cancelled. But then this was back on the original BA PNR. I only think this happened because AA could not clear out the cancelled segment because AA computers never showed it was cancelled. So I suspect the new booking was someone from BA moving us from the cancelled BA flight to the 2pm, and the reservation on the 7:35pm flight was a different PNR on a different ticket, hence BA just cancelled that when they saw the other one at the BA connections.
Continued issues with AA.com, not able to pull up reservation. For on return, an AA EXP agent made a mistake and screwed up our return and cancelled our seat assignment and then someone else got them and we can't get them back. Requested a reroute -- AA EXP (who say they are all supervisors) would not reroute - finally got a manager - who traced through the ticket and acknowledged the screw up of an EXP agent and offered to reroute. Which would even include BA flights.
Bottom line -
I prefer the AA flights from USA to LHR over the BA flights - better J seat and if you have status - in coach you get MCE or exit rows - but no MCE on BA. AA J is much better than BA.
BUT - i have have too many issues with combined AA/BA ticketing. I discussed the above to indicate all the problems I have on this current trip. I have had many issues flying back from Europe to USA with BA flight in Europe to LHR then AA to USA. What ever you do - DO NOT use online check in on either BA or AA for return flights. What will happened is that your seat assignment on your AA flight from LHR to USA will get cancelled. So when you show up in LHR you do not have a seat. I have learned my lessons on this too MANY times.
I think you are better flying BA all the way even if you have an AA ticket - since BA would own the ticket the whole time. AA J is better - but I recommend a single carrier if you can. If you can fly from a US city direct to Europe - your destination - then go AA.
I have already spend 7 hours on the phone with both AA and BA the past 2 days.
If you are EXP - you will get access to BA First Lounge in Term 5, which is really the Emerald Lounge, since if you are in true F, you get into the Concorde room.
Yes Terminal 5 to terminal 3 isn't that bad about a 11 minute bus ride. You do have to clear security again in Terminal 5, but even if you arrived on BA in Terminal 5 you need to clear security again. On connection you don't have to go to immigration and enter UK.
I flew DCA-JFK-LHR-AMS two days ago. On AA to LHR the BA to AMS (with an AA ticket on the AA Code share number from LHR - AMS. But the LHR-AMS was cancelled before I left the USA - and what followed has been a disaster with AA IT.
I got a Text from BA that the LHR-AMS was cancelled, called AA - they said it was still flying, but I knew better using expert flyer. I told AA EXP to call BA, then did, and then acknowledged that it was cancel. But while on the phone, someone other than AA was in the record - likely BA and BA had rebooked (still in Business class) from JFK to LCY (London City airport on an A318 in J) then to Rotterdam. AMS was closed in the am due to weather. I did not want that - so after BA left the record I had AA put me back on the AA flight with my same class and seat. Best AA could get was 2 days later on on LHR - AMS.
I called AA again after I checked in at DCA my first segment and the EXP desk could get me on a same day but not until 7:35pm 13 hours after arrival. Took the agent over 30 minutes to get the new ticket issued which then had a new BA PNR. Upon arrival in LHR, checked in at BA transfer desk and someone had moved us up to the 2:20pm flight. First flight flying out of LHR To AMS was at 1pm - morning flights cancelled. But then this was back on the original BA PNR. I only think this happened because AA could not clear out the cancelled segment because AA computers never showed it was cancelled. So I suspect the new booking was someone from BA moving us from the cancelled BA flight to the 2pm, and the reservation on the 7:35pm flight was a different PNR on a different ticket, hence BA just cancelled that when they saw the other one at the BA connections.
Continued issues with AA.com, not able to pull up reservation. For on return, an AA EXP agent made a mistake and screwed up our return and cancelled our seat assignment and then someone else got them and we can't get them back. Requested a reroute -- AA EXP (who say they are all supervisors) would not reroute - finally got a manager - who traced through the ticket and acknowledged the screw up of an EXP agent and offered to reroute. Which would even include BA flights.
Bottom line -
I prefer the AA flights from USA to LHR over the BA flights - better J seat and if you have status - in coach you get MCE or exit rows - but no MCE on BA. AA J is much better than BA.
BUT - i have have too many issues with combined AA/BA ticketing. I discussed the above to indicate all the problems I have on this current trip. I have had many issues flying back from Europe to USA with BA flight in Europe to LHR then AA to USA. What ever you do - DO NOT use online check in on either BA or AA for return flights. What will happened is that your seat assignment on your AA flight from LHR to USA will get cancelled. So when you show up in LHR you do not have a seat. I have learned my lessons on this too MANY times.
I think you are better flying BA all the way even if you have an AA ticket - since BA would own the ticket the whole time. AA J is better - but I recommend a single carrier if you can. If you can fly from a US city direct to Europe - your destination - then go AA.
I have already spend 7 hours on the phone with both AA and BA the past 2 days.
Last edited by cova; Feb 10, 2018 at 2:49 pm
Feb 10, 2018, 12:19 pm
#583
Fontaine d'honneur du Flyertalk
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Morbihan, France
Programs: Reine des Muccis de Pucci; Foreign Elitist (according to others)
Posts: 19,174
Yes, a third world airport. Have been saying this for years. But BAA is complacent to the nth degree, alas. Even the new Queen's Terminal (T2) has so many basic design flaws that it's difficult to know where to start.... The people who design these facilities clearly never have to actually use them.
I am intrigued as to these design flaws as I have never used the new Terminal. All I can say about the others is that there is only so much lipstick that you can put on a pig.
None of this is of help to the OP. Irrespective of inflight experience, I would do anything to avoid LHR at all. I think that the suggestion to travel via Madrid is sound as might be Dublin which is very small but the connections seem quite easy . I think that PHL makes sense purely from a point of view that I mistrust connections that might leave you high and dry in the connecting airport if flights run late. Frankly, I did the connection between T3 and T5 not that long ago and I find it tedious so I would be loath to do it unless I had to. I was in an IRROPs situation and AA sent me on their service non-stop from LAX and I had to fly on to CDG.
Feb 10, 2018, 12:28 pm
#584
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: USA & UK -- AA EXP 3.5MM, Hyatt Diamond, SPG Plat, Avis President's Club
Posts: 6,411
If we focus narrowly on just three hours on the ground at LHR airport, then I'd choose BA over AA ... due to ease of connection.
If we focus on the whole trip then I'd choose AA for many reasons. Free MCE as a elite. Inflight wi-fi. Better all-round product.
If we focus on the whole trip then I'd choose AA for many reasons. Free MCE as a elite. Inflight wi-fi. Better all-round product.
Feb 10, 2018, 12:36 pm
#585
Moderator: American AAdvantage
Original Poster
Join Date: May 2000
Location: NorCal - SMF area
Programs: AA LT Plat; HH LT Diamond, Maître-plongeur des Muccis
Posts: 62,948
Hello there! Great community this is!
I've been a United flyer for a number of years but owing to corporate contracts we are now on American which sucks as our partner firm in Europe is in Germany.
I am flying to and from Munich next month and need to decide between American through Heathrow or British through Heathrow. I hear moving from terminal 5 to 3 is beyond annoying.
Any advantage to staying on American versus British? Lounges at JFK or Heathrow better on one? How about inflight - American 777-2 versus British 747.
Through flying and corporate agreement I am platinum.
how I will miss the Senator Lounges.!
I've been a United flyer for a number of years but owing to corporate contracts we are now on American which sucks as our partner firm in Europe is in Germany.
I am flying to and from Munich next month and need to decide between American through Heathrow or British through Heathrow. I hear moving from terminal 5 to 3 is beyond annoying.
Any advantage to staying on American versus British? Lounges at JFK or Heathrow better on one? How about inflight - American 777-2 versus British 747.
Through flying and corporate agreement I am platinum.
how I will miss the Senator Lounges.!
1) LHR is quite survivable, as long as you plan sufficient time. I’ve done this dozens of times and it’s generally easier and faster than arriving at LHR (using the Arrivals Lounge / staying in the U. K.) It has improved over the years, as well. It’s no worse, and often better, than the required terminals changes one must make in many airports divided into international and domestic terminals (SYD is worse, for sure) in Australia, India, or even ORD / Chicago or JFK interterminal connections, for that matter.
2) There are decent Galleries Business lounges in T-5. There are decent Admirals Club and Flagship Lounge as well Qantas, BA and Cathay Business lounges in T-3.
3) Transatlantic, AA offers a superior Business Class hard product compared to BA Club World Flat bed seats, by far.
4) Some BA intraeurope fkights are out of T-3, such as my flights to or from LIS. Use the links above to see where BA departs to MUC.
Please read the Wikipost at the top of this thread, the master thread for LHR connections If you’re connecting to or from AA.
Last edited by JDiver; Feb 10, 2018 at 2:04 pm