Can you enter the departures area without a boarding pass at London Heathrow airport?
My girlfriend is leaving the UK from Heathrow tomorrow. Is it possible for me to go through security with her so that we can be together until she goes to her departure gate?
Best Answer
As far as I know, it is not possible in the United Kingdom. If anything, even if you could escort her through security screening, you would not be permitted beyond passport control without a boarding pass for a departing flight.
A potential workaround is to purchase a refundable ticket for a flight departing later from the same terminal. You would be sent through screening just as any other departing passenger, and then after seeing her off you could exit and get your ticket refunded (being mindful of the terms of the ticket). Personally, I think this is an ethical grey area, since you are tying up airport and airline resources without intending to fly, but it would be entirely legal.
Different countries have different policies. I believe Australia does not restrict airside access to ticketed passengers at all. In the U.S., one can obtain a "gate pass" for non-flyers from the airline, which is not unlike a "platform ticket" in British railway stations. Gate passes are usually restricted to people like parents/guardians of minors, interpreters, or companions offering assistance to people with disabilities or other special needs.
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Can you go to the gate in an airport without boarding pass?
Well, it turns out you can still go past airport security without a boarding pass \u2014 but under special considerations. First, there's something called an Airport Escort Pass, and it only works if you're accompanying a minor or a person with a disability who needs special assistance to the boarding gate.Can you go into Heathrow departures?
Terminals 2,3 and 5 are open for arriving and departing flights. As some airlines might not be operating out of their normal terminal, please continue to check with your airline before traveling to confirm the terminal for your flight.Can I travel without a boarding pass?
Generally, a passenger with an electronic ticket will only need a boarding pass. If a passenger has a paper airline ticket, that ticket (or flight coupon) may be required to be attached to the boarding pass for him or her to board the aircraft.Can I get a gate pass at Heathrow airport?
Departure GateIf you need a boarding pass or if you have a bag to check-in then this can be done in the Terminal 5 Departures Check-in area.Heathrow Terminal 5 | Walking and Boarding
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Answer 2
No, unfortunately it is not possible. In the queue to the security boarding passes are being checked and only passengers with a valid boarding pass are allowed through.
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