Can someone confirm that the easiest way to make this transfer is by the Heathrow Express (assuming we take it in the correct direction)? We will not have checked bags, and will be flying on 2 separate flight segments, SEA to LHR and then LHR to BCN (meaning they were booked separately, not as one trip). I assume if we do this we will go through security again at T3? I looked at the Heathrow website and it appears there is also a bus for the connection that apparently stays "airside", but I have the impression this is only for people booked on a connecting flight on the same ticket. Or am I wrong? Would the bus be a better option? Thanks for your help. We flew through Heathrow last summer but only had to deal with T5.
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5850 posts
Lola, Assuming that you have your boarding pass for the LHR to BCN leg (e.g. online check-in) and you have carry-on only, then you should stay airside and follow the flight connections directions and use the bus. Yes, you will go through security again when you change terminals regardless. Staying airside is the easiest way to make the transfer. To use the Heathrow Express, you have to go out through immigration. There is no reason to do this unless you need to do something like reclaim your bags.
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5850 posts
One more thing ... Look at the Heathrow website and under Flight Connections, look at the instructions for connecting from T5 to T3. It will give very detailed instructions.
Posted by
OP
Seattle, WA
17454 posts
Thank you! It wasn't clear to me that we could use the "airside" bus connection on the tickets we have. But you clarified this, and we'll be sure to have our boarding passes for both flights through on-line check-in.
Posted by
Los Angeles, California
1986 posts
Yes: Stay airside; follow signs for conections. You will go through secirity again, but its quick compared with going outside and trying to get in again