Move to Heathrow Terminal 2 completed without any major hitches
All the airlines using Heathrow’s new terminal 2 are now in place – with South African Airways becoming the last to move to the state of the art building. The staggered launch of the terminal, which began when it was officially opened in June by the Queen has now been completed – the final airlines to arrive this week were South African, Air New Zealand, TAP and Asiana. In an attempt to avoid a repeat of the chaotic opening of Terminal 5, Heathrow insisted that individual airlines would set up shop in T2 bit by bit, and it has proved a success. The South African launch was particularly stunning with 17 performers entertaining passengers all day. And the airlines’ departure of flight SA237 signalled the successful completion of the planned 23 Star Alliance moves into the new Heathrow Terminal Two, the Queens Terminal. Throughout the day, African drummers, singers and dancers brought the sights and sounds of South Africa to London as they performed to crowds at the entrance to the terminal. All passengers were kept entertained in the departure lounge with more performances, as well as encouraged to participate in a drum workshop, which was a big hit with younger travellers.. The party continued at SAA’s departure gate for the two evening flights, with more singers, dancers and drumming. Passengers got involved right up until boarding, as SAA celebrated becoming one of the final Star Alliance members to move into its new home. Air New Zealand also got into the spirit of the things with beefeaters on hand to greet arriving passengers. Air New Zealand Regional General Manager Americas, United Kingdom and Europe Chris Myers says: “As part of Star Alliance, we are thrilled to be joining our partners in Heathrow’s fantastic new Terminal 2. Enhancing the customer experience at all touch points has been a significant focus for our airline and we look forward to being able to offer our customers a more seamless airport experience in London.”
