London Heathrow

Get your trip off to a relaxing start with our fast, friendly check in services at Heathrow's Terminal 3.

When to arrive for your flight

We recommend you get to the airport with plenty of time to spare – it’s a good way to avoid last-minute stress!  As a rule of thumb:

- Virgin Atlantic flights: arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight is due to leave.

- Partner airline flights: we recommend you check in three hours before your scheduled departure.

Check in options
You can check in for your flight and pick up your boarding pass using any of the following options.

Baggage information

Not sure how much to bring for your flight, or want details on restrictions? Check our Baggage Information pages for full details. 

Did you know?

Transferring to a connecting flight at Heathrow airport is simple. Just head over to Terminal 3, Airside Departures. As long as your baggage was tagged through to your final destination, follow the purple signs for "Flight Connections."

If your next flight is from a different terminal a dedicated bus will take you there, they are free and depart every 8 minutes or less.

You will pass through security screening and your hand baggage will be checked by security staff. Please remember liquids in containers over 100ml are not allowed through security.

If you are a non-UK resident and have goods to declare to H M Customs, please use the telephone prior to security to contact a member of staff.

Once through security if you wish to visit your airline's ticket desk you will find it at this point.

You will now be in the departure lounge and ready for your next flight. Check the screens for information about your flight, as they will tell you when to go to your departure gate. Meanwhile, you can relax, shop, eat and use other facilities here.