Faster border controls at Heathrow

Monday 13 October 2008

Airline & Airport Updates

UK passengers will benefit from faster border controls when they arrive on flights to Heathrow Airport.

UK citizens entering Heathrow will have to wait for a maximum of 15 minutes, following the new announcement from the Home Office and BAA.

This follows a similar agreement between officials at Manchester Airport and the UK Border Agency in August.

Home secretary Jacqui Smith said: "A strong border is essential for the security of the UK. It is crucial that those with no right to be in this country are barred from entry.

"Today's agreement will combine these tough checks with our vow to make the process as quick as possible for legitimate travellers."

Passengers on Delta Air Lines' flights to Heathrow may also soon benefit from a more comfortable long-haul journey, in addition to quicker security services.

The airline recently announced that it plans to introduce fully flat beds for all business passengers on services between the US and the London airport.