FCC at LHR WTF?

[simongr]

I was just reading KiwFlyer's RTW in 60 hours report and was reminded that I dont understand the FCC abbreviation or t he problems that it seems to cause people. I think that it stands for Flight Connections Cxx_xx but not sure what the other C is for ( I could think of a couple of things based on what people are saying but this is a family friendly board).

My other question is why is it such a trauma for people. I have transited through LHR a couple of times now (about three I think) and have had no major dramas. I have my BP for onward flights from my initial check in (either at JFK or LCA) so the only trauma is security. Being in J am generally at the front so the queues arent horrendous (apart from the time that the staff were obscuring the J/F express channel through security. The rest of the trip hasnt been bad - 2 mins wait for a bus and then offski to the lounge. Am I missing some trauma that I should be experiencing?

Cheers

S

 

[Kiwi Flyer]

FCC is flight connections centre.

The experience varies enormously by time of day, whether you can use the BA fast-track and how many screeners they have on duty.

I have gotten through in 2 minutes. But only when arriving on one of the super early flights and with fast track access.

I have also spent more than an hour. For example almost every time arriving on NZ - and yes mostly I am first off the transfer bus from T3, but also arriving on other airlines.

My personal worst is 2 hours (just for the security queue - add in long walks from & to gates, bus transfer and immigration to that time).

Based on my own experiences I am unwilling to book LHR connections under 2 hours and prefer to have a minimum of 3 or 4 hours. There'll be more reasons in upcoming post on my trip report.

FCC is an absolute disgrace and a major reason (along with stupid carry on rules) why I try not to fly BA or transit through LHR.

Oh, and some connections through FCC are very fast - eg from T1 domestic. Just a simple check of BP/ticket and bypass all the security nonsense.

 

[NM]

The variability of the FCC delays is why I have sometimes chosen to clear immigration (say upon arrival at T4), use HEX to get to the departure terminal (such as T1) and pass through the security screening checkpoint at the premium check-in area.