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Why Heathrow’s Terminal 2 is Named the Queen’s Terminal

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Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, boasts a rich history and a complex network of terminals that cater to millions of passengers annually. Among these, Terminal 2 stands out not only for its modern facilities but also for its distinguished title: The Queen’s Terminal. This blog delves into the origins of this name, the history of Heathrow’s terminals, and provides insights into Gatwick Airport’s South and North Terminals.

The Inception of Terminal 2: A Historical Overview

The original Terminal 2, known as the Europa Building, was inaugurated in 1955 as Heathrow’s first permanent passenger terminal. Designed by architect Frederick Gibberd, it was part of a central area development that included the Queens Building, an office complex named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II. The Europa Building was later renamed Terminal 2 following the construction of Terminal 1 in 1969. Over the decades, Terminal 2 witnessed significant passenger growth, handling up to 8 million travelers annually by its final years. Despite various renovations, the terminal became outdated and was closed in 2009 to make way for a modern replacement.

The Birth of The Queen’s Terminal

The new Terminal 2, officially named The Queen’s Terminal, was part of a £2.5 billion redevelopment project aimed at enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency. The terminal was designed by Luis Vidal + Architects and opened its doors to passengers on 4 June 2014. The naming of the terminal pays homage to Queen Elizabeth II, who had inaugurated the original Terminal 2 in 1955. The Queen officially opened the new terminal on 23 June 2014, underscoring the enduring connection between the British monarchy and Heathrow Airport.

Design and Features of The Queen’s Terminal

The Queen’s Terminal was designed with a focus on sustainability and passenger comfort. The building incorporates large north-facing windows that flood the interior with natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and minimizing heat gain. Photovoltaic panels on the roof contribute to the terminal’s energy efficiency, while a biomass-powered energy center provides heating and cooling. These features collectively result in 40% lower carbon dioxide emissions compared to the buildings it replaced.

Inside, passengers can explore 52 shops and 17 bars and restaurants, offering a diverse range of retail and dining options. The terminal also houses “Slipstream,” a sculpture by Richard Wilson designed to evoke the dynamic motion of a stunt plane, adding an artistic touch to the travel experience.

Heathrow’s Terminal Network: A Brief Overview

Heathrow Airport operates four active terminals:

  • Terminal 2 (The Queen’s Terminal): Primarily serves Star Alliance members and some unaffiliated airlines.
  • Terminal 3: Opened in 1961 as the Oceanic Terminal, it handles long-haul flights to destinations in the U.S., Asia, and other regions.
  • Terminal 4: Inaugurated in 1986, it accommodates flights to the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.
  • Terminal 5: Opened in 2008, exclusively used by British Airways and Iberia.

The original Terminal 1, which opened in 1968, was closed in 2015 to facilitate the expansion of Terminal 2. As of now, Terminal 1 remains closed, with parts of it repurposed for baggage handling and training purposes.

Gatwick Airport: South and North Terminals

While Heathrow is London’s primary airport, Gatwick Airport serves as a significant secondary hub, located approximately 30 miles south of Central London. Gatwick operates two main terminals:

  • South Terminal: The older of the two, it offers a wide range of facilities, including numerous shops, restaurants, and lounges. It serves both full-service and low-cost carriers, handling flights to various domestic and international destinations.
  • North Terminal: Opened later to accommodate increasing passenger numbers, it features modern amenities and a spacious layout. The terminal hosts several major airlines and offers flights to a diverse array of destinations worldwide.

Both terminals are well-equipped to handle the needs of travelers, providing comprehensive services to ensure a comfortable journey.

BA Car Hire: Your Gateway to Convenient Travel

Navigating through London’s bustling airports can be a daunting task, but with BA Car Hire, your journey becomes seamless. Offering a fleet of well-maintained vehicles and exceptional customer service, BA Car Hire ensures that your travel between Heathrow’s terminals or from Gatwick Airport to your destination is comfortable and hassle-free. Whether you’re arriving at The Queen’s Terminal or departing from Gatwick’s South Terminal, BA Car Hire is committed to providing you with reliable transportation solutions tailored to your needs.


Final Thoughts

Heathrow’s Terminal 2, aptly named The Queen’s Terminal, stands as a testament to the airport’s commitment to honoring its rich history while embracing modernity and sustainability. As London’s aviation landscape continues to evolve, both Heathrow and Gatwick airports strive to enhance passenger experiences through state-of-the-art facilities and services. With partners like BA Car Hire, travelers can look forward to convenient and efficient journeys across the UK’s major airports.

Booking BA Car Hire at Gatwick South Terminal is a simple and hassle-free process. Visit their official website, enter your travel details, select your desired vehicle, and make a secure online payment.

If you prefer a personal touch, you can book BA Car Hire in person at their designated counter within the South Terminal. Friendly staff will guide you through the booking process, ensuring all your requirements are met.

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