E-gates at Heathrow

If you search, there is another thread on this, summary is that Yes, processing is quicker, but as always, somewhat dependent on the line, how many planes land, etc.

Here is the information from Heathrow's website.

This will be fantastic if this really works!

“Simply scan your e-passport at the barrier. The system runs a face-recognition check against the chip in your passport, then if you're eligible to enter the UK the gate opens automatically – all in a matter of seconds”

It works. But even if there is a problem, there is a booth near the egates for people with passport chip problems. The agent confirms it's you. Takes no time.

My passport developed chip problems a couple of years ago. I've had to use the booth. Never had to wait more than 5 minutes.

I came through one day this week at about 6:30 am. There was just about no one in the queue for the E gates....it took longer to walk through the back and forth ropes and stanchions than it took to wait for a gate. There are indeed signs and flags that say passport holders from certain countries can use the E gates. There is a note that says anyone traveling with children under 12 still needs to go to the humans and cannot use the gates.

There is a note that says anyone traveling with children under 12 still needs to go to the humans and cannot use the gates.

Well that’s a bummer. I wonder why? I was looking forward to getting through quicker when we fly to LHR in August, but I have two kids under 12.

The child has to be capable of operating the e-gate (although many adults struggle). Also there have been child safeguarding considerations, eg children travelling under duress or not with parents. Anyone who uses the e-gate under 18 raises an alert with the control officer anyway who has to make a visual assessment for entry.