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What time should I leave for Heathrow?

Typical door-to-gate time

For a midday international departure, our model's typical (median) door-to-gate time at Heathrow is about 118 minutes, rising to around 145 minutes on a busier-than-usual day - not counting your journey to the airport itself.

Getting to Heathrow

Heathrow is about 24 km west of central London. The Heathrow Express takes about 15 minutes from Paddington; driving or a taxi typically takes 45-90 minutes depending on traffic - a wide range, and worth checking on the day rather than assuming the fast case.

Which terminal matters

Terminal 5 is exclusively British Airways; Terminal 2 hosts Star Alliance carriers; Terminal 3 hosts Oneworld and other international airlines. Confirm yours before you plan your route to the airport.

Get your own leave-time estimate

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These are general, statistically-modelled estimates - not a guarantee. Always allow extra time for anything unusual, and check your airline's and airport's own current guidance.

What time should I leave for Heathrow? - LeaveTime