Checking in at Heathrow
Finding your check-in zone
You'll find your check-in zone listed on the information screens near the departures entrance (the zones themselves are marked by illuminated yellow cubes).
Terminal 2 only
Economy class passengers: please use a self-service check-in machine to print your boarding pass and baggage tags before going to bag drop. Assistance will be available if you need it.
Premium class passengers: please follow the signs to the Premium Check-in area.
How early to arrive
You should have received check-in instructions with your booking. If you can't find them, your airline or travel agent will be able to help.
However, as a general guide you should plan to be at check-in / bag drop:
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Long-haul and El Al: three hours before scheduled departure
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UK and European flights: two hours before scheduled departure.
If you have already checked in online, and don't have bags to drop, please follow your airline's advice on timings; you should still aim to be at security control by the times above.
Online and mobile check-inexpanded
Use online check-in to select seats and print boarding passes before you get to the airport. Then when you arrive, just drop your baggage at the bag-drop kiosk and you're ready.
Some airlines also offer mobile check-in, where boarding cards are sent directly to compatible mobile devices. All you have to do is drop your baggage at the bag-drop kiosk and go straight to security.
To find out if you can use this service, please check with your airline.
Please note that passengers who have checked in on their mobile phones or online still need to arrive in good time for their flight. Please pay close attention to the times given by your airline for dropping bags, collecting boarding cards and arriving at the gate.