Countdown begins for Heathrow’s T5 opening

Airport operator BAA and British Airways have embarked on a six month period of operational readiness activities in preparation for the opening of Heathrow’s Terminal 5 on March 27, 2008.

Activities at the new terminal that cost GBP 5 bln to build and was designed by 2006 Stirling Prize winner the Richard Rogers Partnership, include induction and familiarisation programmes, staff training and more than 70 proving trials that run in parallel to the final completion work which includes fit-out, systems integration and finishing works.

In all, over 30,000 staff from different organisations will be taken through comprehensive familiarisation and induction programmes at the new terminal. BAA and British Airways began a series of joint basic tests involving the different elements of the building, such as signage and wayfinding, the check-in process or evacuation procedures.

Over 16,000 people have been recruited to act as volunteer passengers under realistic airport conditions and will thoroughly test every aspect of the building including car parking, check-in, baggage systems, IT systems and security.

“We can’t wait to open the doors to our customers on March 27 next year,” said Willie Walsh, Chief Executive of British Airways.

“Terminal 5 is a fantastic opportunity for British Airways and will transform our operations with less queuing, faster baggage systems and better punctuality. Our customers will have exclusive use of Terminal 5 and this will allow us to offer unparalleled standards of comfort and convenience.”