Heathrow warns passengers to do 2 key checks before heading to the airport

With more than 23 million travellers set to go through Heathrow Airport this summer, it’s crucial to be fully prepared for your departure, including the two checks you should do

Heathrow Airport has issued a warning to all passengers on the two checks they should do before heading to the airport.

With the summer holidays in full swing, airports across the UK will be busier than ever, with a whopping 30 million British holidaymakers expected to board a plane in July and August. London Heathrow Airport alone is expected to welcome more than 23 million of these passengers during the peak travel period.

In a bid to prepare millions of holidaymakers this summer, Heathrow has outlined some key travel advice and crucial airport information. Among these were two checks that all passengers should complete before departure.

In a warning to travellers, Heathrow said that all travellers need to “check the new battery rules”. It comes after the International Civil Aviation Organisation updated its rules earlier this year on how passengers carry power banks, along with lithium cells or batteries, onboard any aircraft.

The UK’s biggest and busiest airport urged passengers: “Check with your specific airline regarding battery rules, as some airlines now require you to pack batteries in hand luggage and be placed within reach during your flight. This can include items such as power banks, e-cigarettes, or simply travelling with spare batteries.”

Following the change that came into effect on 27 March, airlines have a cap on the number of power banks that can be taken on board, with most only allowing two per passenger, which must be stored in hand luggage and not used during the flight. However, this can vary by airline, with some allowing more than two or only one per person, so it’s vital to check specific guidelines before getting to the airport.

In further advice to Brits, Heathrow urged everyone to “check in before you arrive”, amid the busy travel period. They said: “Save time at Heathrow by checking in electronically, downloading your boarding pass and checking your airline’s baggage requirements before you set off.”

By carrying out these two checks, it will allow a smoother experience at the airport, and prevent any unnecessary upholds that can easily be avoided.

Those travelling from Heathrow can now benefit from keeping liquids and electronics in their hand luggage when going through security. This is thanks to the airport’s upgraded security lanes, with Heathrow also ditching the 100ml liquid rule, allowing passengers to carry up to two litres of liquids through security.

Meanwhile, children aged eight and above, who are at least 120cm (3ft 11in) in height, can now use the eGates at Heathrow. This is hoped to allow an easier and faster process for families when going through passport control when arriving back into the UK.

Daniel Edwards, Director of Airport Journeys at Heathrow, said: “Summer is one of our busiest and most exciting times of year, and we want to make every journey through Heathrow smooth and enjoyable. From faster security lanes to more places to shop, eat and relax, we’re always looking for ways to help our passengers get their travels off to a great start.”

For more information ahead of your holiday, visit the Heathrow Airport website.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email [email protected]