QF enforcing checkin time at LHR?

[jg::]

Hi folks. Similar to the recent "checkin at MEL", I'm wondering if QF are enforcing the 4-hr check-in time at LHR? I'm on QF10 to PER, and I'm a little worried about potential immigration queue times after check-in. I'd like to check-in super-early. Anyone have any experience of either?

 

[defurax]

There is no "emigration/immigration" when leaving the UK, only security screening. If you are flying J or F or have frequent flyer status, you may have access to "invitation only" security screening which may be a bit faster. Overall, no need to arrive early at LHR.

 

[GoldCanyon340]

It's T-4 at LHR but it's easy at T3, which is not the most efficient terminal in the world. You only need your BP to officially leave the country, just scan it through the machine and you're through to priority security screening. Go through the central hall, turn left past the QF lounge and head straight to the CX lounges.

 

[GoldCanyon340]

Oh and welcome to AFF as well @jg::

 

[jg::]

Oh and welcome to AFF as well @jg::

Thank you! I had heard recent horror stories about queues at LHR (it's been a while since I've been there). But from what you've said, it shouldn't be too bad checking in Qclub/Premium Economy.

 

[RooFlyer]

Welcome to AFF.

No reason to worry re 4 hrs. 3 would still be easily OK.

 

[GoldCanyon340]

Thank you! I had heard recent horror stories about queues at LHR (it's been a while since I've been there). But from what you've said, it shouldn't be too bad checking in Qclub/Premium Economy.

There's an escalator up to security very near..... you shouldn't/won't have a problem navigating the terminal at that end

 

[pauly7]

Yes LHR security is a nightmare - very inefficient and slow (like England in general) but 3 hours is still loads of time.

 

[kookaburra75]

Yes LHR security is a nightmare - very inefficient and slow (like England in general) but 3 hours is still loads of time.

To be fair, I find the security staff aren't the issue, the problem is all of the passengers that don't listen to the instructions called out constantly by the staff (nothing in pockets, take off your belt and watch etc) and then hold up the queue while they get themselves sorted at the machines.
And yes, the CX Lounge is excellent, but then do drop into the QF Lounge for a drink at the Gin Bar. Don't order something you know, just ask the barstaff to surprise you.
Welcome to AFF and save travels

 

[jg::]

Thank you, all. Back to one of my original questions, I may be getting an early-morning lift to LHR. If I happen to arrive earlier than 4 hrs, is it likely I'll be able to check in bags?

 

[pauly7]

To be fair, I find the security staff aren't the issue, the problem is all of the passengers that don't listen to the instructions called out constantly by the staff (nothing in pockets, take off your belt and watch etc) and then hold up the queue while they get themselves sorted at the machines.
And yes, the CX Lounge is excellent, but then do drop into the QF Lounge for a drink at the Gin Bar. Don't order something you know, just ask the barstaff to surprise you.
Welcome to AFF and save travels

I don’t blame the security staff themselves I just find they don’t put enough of them on at the right time!

And yes agree in any airport around the world if everyone spoke one fluent language would be much easier to understand and follow instructions

 

[calmelb]

Thank you, all. Back to one of my original questions, I may be getting an early-morning lift to LHR. If I happen to arrive earlier than 4 hrs, is it likely I'll be able to check in bags?

Given the QF10 leaves at 12:10 , depending on how early, there may not be any QF staff at the airport anyway. The only other Qantas flight is the QF2 and that leaves in the evening. Chances are the staff won't arrive till 4 hours before anyway

 

[jg::]

A very good point, thanks Calmelb.

 

[Quickstatus]

Are the checkin counters shared ?- that each airline have the gates for a certain period of time?

 

[kookaburra75]

Are the checkin counters shared ?- that each airline have the gates for a certain period of time?

At Heathrow T3 Qantas has its own counters. Normally when I'm catching QF2 in the evening the counter staff aren't there until 4 hours prior to departure. The screens at the counters says what time they'll be there

 

[mrsterryn]

Apart from Sydney I have never had an early check in .
Lax, Tokyo are very very to the minute

 

[jg::]

Reporting that staff arrived at Heathrow check-in counters around 8:00 a.m. for QF10 departure at 12:10, so slightly ahead of the strict 4 hours. Security queues were not bad at that time, we were in the lounge by 8:30. And a very nice lounge it is, too.