Heathrow Airport Terminal 2

UK

As part of Heathrow Airport’s ambitious investment program, the new Queens Terminal building replaced the old Heathrow Airport Terminal 2, resulting in a modern, efficient, and sustainable facility with the capacity to serve approximately 26 million passengers per year (MPPA). This landmark project not only enhances the passenger experience through improved spatial organization and services, but also reinforces Heathrow’s position as a major international hub and gateway to the United Kingdom.

IDOM played a key role in the development of the Heathrow Airport Terminal 2 project, providing a multidisciplinary design service that included architecture, project management, and design management. The scope of work encompassed the comprehensive overhaul and reconfiguration of all passenger areas, both departures and arrivals. This included the landside and airside concourses, departure lounge, commercial (retail) areas, and associated loading, waste disposal, and storage facilities.

One of the highlights was the expansion and improvement of existing commercial areas, as well as the creation of new spaces to improve circulation, accessibility, and user comfort. The baggage claim hall was reconfigured to incorporate additional belts, and the domestic belts were relocated to optimize passenger flow and reduce congestion. In addition, all gate facilities were revised, including seating arrangements, boarding access, and external vehicle movements to enhance operational efficiency.

The design also contemplated a new segregated routing strategy for CTA (Common Travel Area) and domestic passengers, ensuring a clearer and safer flow through the building. Special attention was given to wayfinding, lighting, and spatial clarity to improve the overall passenger journey.

The terminal was conceived with sustainability criteria in mind, achieving BREEAM Excellent certification thanks to a combination of active and passive design strategies that reduce CO₂ emissions by 40%. These include natural lighting, energy-efficient systems, and the use of sustainable materials.

Overall, the Queens Terminal represents a milestone in contemporary airport architecture, combining functionality, environmental responsibility, and an enhanced user experience at one of the world’s busiest and most iconic airports.

Airport Infrastructure : Architecture : Design