08 July 2008

Air New Zealand switches Heathrow terminals

Air New Zealand has shifted its Heathrow operations from Terminal 3 to Terminal 1.

The move was originally scheduled for June 10, but was postponed to ensure all systems were fully operational, and a smooth transition could be guaranteed, the airline said.

The switch marks the beginning of a Star Alliance project to bring all member airlines together under one roof at Heathrow by 2012.

For the first time since the introduction of a second daily flight from London in October 2006, Air New Zealand will have a single check-in location in Terminal 1.

The airline is currently in a temporary check-in area in Zone R until October, when the final location in Zone G will be ready.

European general manager Scott Carr said: Ã¢â¬ÅâœWe are pleased to say that our move on Friday went exactly as planned, with no passengers experiencing any inconvenience.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœOur new home at T1 is an exciting move for us, and will enable our passengers to benefit from the transformations already underway in the terminal, including a simple, easy to use check-in which will reduce congestion and create quicker processing times, a refreshed arrivals area and immigration hall, and upgraded baggage system.Ã¢â¬~

Air New Zealand premium passengers will have access to a new Star Alliance lounge opening in Terminal 1 this month.

by Phil Davies