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# Heathrow Airport

Heathrow is London's primary global hub and one of the world's major international airports. Located west of central London, it handles a large share of the UK's long-haul and connecting traffic.

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## Role

Heathrow is London's primary global hub, strongest for long-haul, full-service airlines and connections. See [Airlines and routes](page:62919) for the current network and [History](page:62920) for how that role developed.

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## Location

West of central London, near Hounslow and the M25/M4 corridor.

> [!MAP]
> 51.4700, -0.4543
> Heathrow Airport (LHR), west of central London.

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## Codes

- **IATA:** LHR
- **ICAO:** EGLL

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## Ground transport

Heathrow has the widest transport choice: Heathrow Express, Elizabeth line, Piccadilly line, coaches, buses, taxis and road access. See [Getting there](page:62918) for the practical comparison.

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## Terminals

Heathrow operates Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5. Airline assignments and transfer logistics matter, so use the dedicated [Terminals](page:62921) page.

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## Best for

- Long-haul international flights
- Full-service airlines
- Airline-alliance connections
- West London and Thames Valley access

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## Watch-outs

Heathrow can be busy, terminal transfers may take time, and premium rail options can cost more than slower alternatives.

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## Links here

- [London Airports](/smee-again/530-london-airports/en)
- [Airport-to-airport transfers](page:62885)
- [Apps and live services](page:62907)
- [Best airport by London area](page:62887)
- [Choosing the Right Airport](page:539)
- [Croydon Airport](page:64097)
- [Early and late flights](page:62886)
- [Ground Transport](page:538)
- [History of London's airports](page:62999)
- [Tickets and payment](page:62884)