Re: [101attendees] Heathrow Departure

[Rob Evans <[e-mail]>]

> In my last flight to the States a few months ago, I, and at least a
> couple of dozen other passengers, were selected for extra security
> checks, which included a full search of hand luggage, and an
> explosive check against shoes.  It looked like the vast majority of
> passengers boarded as usual, unaware of the checks, but the process
> took some 20 minutes, hence presumably the requirement to arrive in
> good time.  Maybe they're checking more passengers now.

There are two things here.  The first is "conformance," and this
requires you to be through the first boarding pass check and in the
queue for the main security check at least 35 minutes before boarding
time.  However, I'd consider that to be cutting it fine...

The second is "secondary screening" that some passengers to the US are
selected for.  If you have SSSS on your boarding pass (if you are
unable to get a boarding pass online, being selected for secondary
screening is one possible cause), that's extra time required at the
gate, so head to the gate in plenty of time.

Either way, two hours before departure is a reasonable time to arrive
at LHR, even if three is offically recommended for intercontinental
flights.

As Jim says, if in doubt "check with your airline."

Cheers,
Rob

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