Work will begin on a new multi-storey car park and upgraded check-in area at Heathrow’s Terminal 4 next year.
The construction will be phased to ensure normal operations continue at T4, with the completion expected by 2031.
In total, £1.3 billion is being invested in the airport in 2026, including a new dedicated baggage system for T2, enabling it to handle 31,000 bags a day. The airport said the system would be ‘more resilient and efficient’ and would reduce the number of misconnected bags, cutting costs for airlines.
Additionally, a network of cameras will be installed at aircraft stands next year and, using AI to analyse the data captured, these will help speed up flight turnaround times, saving airlines time and money and making journeys more punctual, according to Heathrow.
To further assist passengers with accessibility needs, a new purpose-built assistance area in T2 will offer direct, dedicated access to security for the first time.
The airport will also introduce its new Tailored Travel Guide – the first of its kind for a UK airport – enabling passengers with access needs to input their travel details and receive a personalised step-by-step guide to navigate the airport and know what to expect at each stage of their journey.
Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: “Passengers should expect that every time they travel through Heathrow their journey is better than the last.
“Last December, we said we’d invest in operational performance and this year we’re the most punctual hub in Europe, almost 99% of bags travelled on expected flights and 97% of security queue times were below five minutes, and in January, all passengers in all four terminals will benefit from going through new next-generation security.
“I’m excited to unveil next year’s programme, which will make Heathrow more user-friendly, more efficient and more resilient for our customers.”
