Heathrow Airport Terminal 3 Evacuated Due to Bomb Threat

Key Takeaways

• Terminal 3 at Heathrow evacuated May 29, 2025, due to suspicious bomb threat package.
• One Stop Security program for US flights from Atlanta faces uncertainty after evacuation.
• Flight delays, diversions, and disruptions affect passengers, airlines, and ground transport.

A major security incident unfolded at London’s Heathrow Airport 🇬🇧 on May 29, 2025, when Terminal 3 was evacuated following a bomb threat. The event, which began around 4:26 PM local time, has caused widespread disruption at one of the world’s busiest airports. Authorities responded quickly, putting emergency protocols in place and moving passengers and staff out of the terminal. As the situation develops, travelers, airport workers, and airlines are all feeling the impact.

What Happened at Terminal 3?

The incident started when a suspicious package was found in the baggage reclaim area of Terminal 3. This area sits below the terminal’s airside restaurants and shops, making it a busy spot for arriving passengers. Security teams immediately cordoned off the area and began investigating the package. The airport’s emergency procedures kicked in, leading to a full evacuation of Terminal 3. All passengers and staff were told to leave the building for their safety.

Why Is This So Important?

Heathrow Airport 🇬🇧 is a key international gateway, connecting the United Kingdom to the rest of the world. Terminal 3 is especially important because it serves many long-haul flights, including those to and from North America, Asia, and the Middle East. When something disrupts Terminal 3, it doesn’t just affect people in London—it can cause problems for travelers and airlines around the globe.

Immediate Impact on Flights and Travel

The evacuation of Terminal 3 has led to a complete shutdown of its operations. This means:

• All flights scheduled to arrive or depart from Terminal 3 are delayed or possibly diverted to other airports.
• Passengers and baggage are being rerouted to other terminals, causing congestion and confusion.
• Other terminals at Heathrow are now much busier, as they try to handle extra flights and people.
• Ground transportation, including the Heathrow Express train, is facing delays.
• Many travelers are stranded, looking for new ways to reach their destinations or waiting for updates.

Airlines are working hard to help affected passengers. They are putting contingency plans in place, such as rerouting flights, redirecting baggage, and providing extra staff to help with questions and security checks. However, the sudden nature of the evacuation means that some delays and confusion are unavoidable.

Terminal 3’s Role at Heathrow Airport

Terminal 3 is not just another terminal—it is a vital part of Heathrow’s operations. It handles a large number of international flights, especially those crossing the Atlantic Ocean. Major airlines like Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic use Terminal 3 for many of their long-haul routes.

Recently, Terminal 3 has also been the focus of new security and travel programs. One of the most important is the One Stop Security (OSS) pilot program. This program, which started on February 4, 2025, allows certain passengers arriving from Atlanta to connect to flights in Terminals 3 or 5 without going through extra security checks. The OSS program is a partnership between the UK Department for Transport and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration. It aims to make connections faster and easier for travelers from the United States 🇺🇸.

The OSS program was supposed to end on March 25, 2025, but there were plans to extend it and include all flights arriving from the United States 🇺🇸. Now, with the bomb threat and evacuation, the future of this program is uncertain. Security incidents like this often lead to a review of airport procedures, which could delay or change new programs.

How Are Security Protocols Being Used?

Heathrow Airport 🇬🇧 is known for its strict security measures. Under normal circumstances, passengers must follow rules such as:

• Liquids in containers no larger than 100ml
• Taking electronic devices out of bags for separate screening
• Removing coats, jackets, and belts before going through security

When a bomb threat is reported, even stricter protocols come into play. In this case, the response has included:

• Specialized teams trained to detect explosives examining the suspicious package
• A controlled evacuation to keep everyone safe
• Close coordination with the Metropolitan Police and counter-terrorism units
• Emergency communication to keep staff and passengers informed
• Extra security staff deployed throughout the airport

These steps are designed to protect people and make sure that any threat is dealt with quickly and safely.

Wider Context: Security Changes at UK Airports

The bomb threat at Terminal 3 comes at a time when airport security in the United Kingdom is already changing. The government has been working to modernize security screening, including plans to install new CT scanners. These scanners could make it possible for passengers to carry larger amounts of liquids in their hand luggage, ending the long-standing 100ml rule. However, the rollout of these scanners has been delayed several times, with the latest deadline set for June 2025.

Other recent changes at Heathrow include:

• An increase in the Terminal Drop-Off Charge from £5 to £6 per visit, starting January 1, 2025
• The introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for visitors who do not need a visa to enter the United Kingdom 🇬🇧
• The launch of the One Stop Security pilot program for travelers from Atlanta

These changes are meant to improve security and make travel more efficient, but incidents like today’s bomb threat show that risks remain.

Advice for Travelers Affected by the Evacuation

If you have a flight scheduled to depart from or arrive at Terminal 3, here’s what you should do:

1. Contact your airline right away for the latest information about your flight. Airlines are updating their websites and social media pages with new details as they become available.
2. Allow extra time if you are traveling to Heathrow Airport 🇬🇧. Security checks and transportation delays may make your journey longer than usual.
3. Consider other ways to get to the airport or to your final destination, as trains and buses may also be delayed.
4. Check the official Heathrow Airport website for updates. The airport posts the latest news and instructions for travelers at Heathrow’s official website.
5. Be ready for possible cancellations or long delays. Have a backup plan for accommodation or alternative flights if you need to stay overnight.
6. Keep important documents, medication, and valuables with you in case you are separated from your checked luggage.

What Does This Mean for Immigration and International Travelers?

For many people, Heathrow Airport 🇬🇧 is their first stop when entering the United Kingdom 🇬🇧. Terminal 3 handles a large share of international arrivals, including those who need to go through immigration checks. When a terminal is evacuated, immigration officers may be moved to other parts of the airport, and processing times can increase.

Travelers who need to show visas, passports, or Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) may face longer lines and more questions from border officers. If you are arriving from a country that requires a visa or ETA, make sure you have all your documents ready and be patient with the process.

The incident also highlights the importance of staying informed about immigration requirements before you travel. For example, the new ETA system means that some travelers who did not need a visa in the past now need to apply online before coming to the United Kingdom 🇬🇧. You can find more information about the ETA and other entry requirements on the UK government’s official immigration page.

How Do Security Incidents Affect Airport Workers and Airlines?

It’s not just passengers who are affected by a bomb threat and evacuation. Airport workers, including airline staff, security officers, cleaners, and shop employees, all face disruption. Many are required to leave their posts quickly, sometimes leaving behind personal belongings or unfinished work. Airlines must coordinate with airport authorities to keep their staff safe and informed.

For airlines, an incident like this means:

• Delays and extra costs as flights are rescheduled or rerouted
• More customer service staff needed to answer questions and help stranded passengers
• Possible changes to flight schedules for days or even weeks after the incident

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, major security incidents at airports can have a lasting impact on airline operations and passenger confidence. Airlines may need to review their own emergency plans and work closely with airport authorities to restore normal service.

Historical Perspective: Have Similar Incidents Happened Before?

Heathrow Airport 🇬🇧 and other major airports have faced bomb threats and security scares in the past. While most threats turn out to be false alarms, authorities always treat them seriously. The goal is to protect lives and prevent any possible harm.

After major incidents in the past, airports have often reviewed and improved their security procedures. This includes better training for staff, more advanced screening technology, and clearer communication with the public. The aviation industry as a whole has learned from past events and continues to adapt to new threats.

What Happens Next?

As the investigation into the suspicious package continues, authorities will decide when it is safe to reopen Terminal 3. This may take several hours or even longer, depending on what security teams find. Once the terminal is cleared, airport staff will work to get flights and services back to normal as quickly as possible.

Travelers should expect some delays and changes to schedules even after the terminal reopens. It may take time for airlines to catch up with missed flights and for baggage to be sorted and delivered.

Key Takeaways for Travelers and Stakeholders

• Stay informed: Check with your airline and the official Heathrow Airport website for the latest updates.
• Be patient: Security incidents are stressful for everyone, but safety is always the top priority.
• Have a backup plan: Be ready for delays, cancellations, or changes to your travel plans.
• Keep documents handy: Make sure you have your passport, visa, or ETA ready for inspection.
• Follow instructions: Listen to airport staff and security officers for your safety and the safety of others.

Final Thoughts

The bomb threat and evacuation at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3 show how quickly travel plans can change. While the situation is still developing, the response from airport authorities and airlines has focused on keeping people safe and informed. As more details become available, travelers should continue to check official sources and be ready to adjust their plans.

For more information about current travel and immigration requirements for the United Kingdom 🇬🇧, visit the UK government’s official immigration website. This site provides up-to-date details on visas, ETAs, and other entry rules.

As always, safety comes first. By staying alert and prepared, travelers can help ensure their journey through Heathrow Airport 🇬🇧 is as smooth as possible, even in the face of unexpected events.

Learn Today

Terminal 3 → A major terminal at Heathrow handling international long-haul flights, especially to North America and Asia.
One Stop Security (OSS) → A pilot program allowing Atlanta-arriving passengers to connect flights at Heathrow without extra security checks.
Evacuation → The controlled removal of passengers and staff from a dangerous or potentially dangerous area.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) → An online pre-approval required for some travelers entering the UK without a visa.
Heathrow Express → A high-speed train service connecting Heathrow Airport to central London, affected by delays due to the incident.

This Article in a Nutshell

On May 29, 2025, Heathrow’s Terminal 3 was evacuated following a bomb threat. This disruption halted flights, delayed passengers, and raised security concerns affecting global travel and airport operations.
— By VisaVerge.com