Ever wondered what lies beyond the main terminal at Heathrow? Here we are at Heathrow Terminal 5B. It is a key part of one of the world’s busiest airports. Heathrow Terminal 5B plays a vital role in international travel.
Terminal 5 is the largest free-standing building in the UK. It is used almost exclusively by British Airways and Iberia. Heathrow aims to handle over 30 million passengers a year with Terminal 5. This will keep Heathrow as the world’s busiest airport. About 90 million passengers pass through each year.
Heathrow Terminal 5 actually consists of three buildings. These are Terminal 5A, Terminal 5B and Terminal 5C. Terminal 5A handles domestic flights. Terminal 5B is for long-haul routes.
The main terminal and Terminal 5B are linked. A train travels between them in just 30 seconds.
Terminal 5B is a satellite building. It measures 442 meters long, 52 meters wide and 19.5 meters high. Inside, you will find 37 lifts and 29 escalators.
Did you know that Terminal 5 has a state-of-the-art baggage system? It has 8 km of high-speed track and 18 km of regular conveyor belts. The system handles 4,000 bags per hour. There is even an early bag store for up to 4,000 bags. Late-running bags are sent on a fast-track conveyor.
If you have time to spare before your flight, Terminal 5B offers some unique options. At Be Relax, you can enjoy massages and aromatherapy. Need a wardrobe update? Heathrow offers a complimentary personal shopper service.
British Airways has several lounges at Terminal 5. These lounges offer comfortable seating, good views and food and drink. The main lounges can be very busy. The British Airways lounge in Terminal 5B is a quieter alternative. All eligible British Airways passengers can use the T5B lounge. This includes those in Club Europe or Club World. It also includes those with Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status. The T5B lounge is located one level above the main floor.
Inside the lounge you’ll find several seating areas. The main area has pairs of seats and groups of four. Dividers create private spaces. Food and drinks are self-serve. Enjoy a full bar selection.
Terminal 5 was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 14 March 2008. The first arrival was flight BA26 from Hong Kong on 27 March 2008. The first passenger was Paul Walker. He was presented with a boarding pass for the first departing flight BA302 to Paris.
Terminal 5 is more than just an airport terminal. It’s a destination. It connects people and cultures across the globe. Remember Terminal 5B for its unique history.