This International Airport Will Allow Travelers to Reserve Their Spot in the Security Line

Navigating through security at one of the world’s largest airports just got easier.

London’s Heathrow Airport recently debuted the new “Heathrow Timeslot”, which will allow passengers to pre-book a timeslot at the security screening checkpoint, according to a press release from Heathrow. 

The program is currently in a six-month trial and is free to utilize and is specifically for passengers departing from Terminal 3. Travelers can book their time slot now on Heathrow’s website. 

As the six-month trial period of the program progresses, additional airlines could be added to the pilot, and an analysis of the data will conclude whether the timeslot program will be continued and expanded in the future.

In a helpful move for families, groups of up to five can book the same time slot. Travelers can book their slot up to three days before the departure, and are reminded by the airport to check with their specific airline on any deadlines for baggage drop-off or check-in. 

“Everyone is familiar with airport security, but at Heathrow we’re constantly thinking of innovative ways to boost the safety and streamline the experience for our passengers,” Heathrow's Operational Planning Director Mark Powell said in a statement. “This new trial will give passengers that extra added bit of certainty and reassurance ahead of their journey and we think it will be particularly popular for those with families or nervous travelers who may want a bit more confidence in their journeys.”

Terminal 3 services many international airlines including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, and Virgin Atlantic.

In 2022, Heathrow provided air travel for 61.6 million passengers, a 217 percent increase over 2021 stats. This growth was the largest of any airport in the world, according to a financial disclosure from Heathrow.