Checking in
- Online check-in usually opens 24 to 48 hours before departure on your airline's site or app.
- Self-service kiosks are outside the entrance, next to the DLR station.
- Check-in desks on the ground floor open 2 hours before the scheduled departure.
- British Airways has a self-service bag tag area just inside the entrance; Lufthansa and SWISS passengers can use the Express Bag Drop in the middle of the terminal.
Source: airport check-in page.
Overnight bag drop
British Airways, KLM and Luxair passengers on flights leaving at or before 10:00 can drop bags from 16:00 the day before, at the airline's bag drop desk, with passport and travel documents. Airport check-in page.
Arriving and reclaim
International arrivals pass UK Border Force passport control before baggage reclaim. Check the GOV.UK ETA rules before you fly to the UK.
Delayed, damaged or lost bags
Report it before you leave
Report a missing or damaged bag to your airline at the airport and get a reference number.
Keep receipts
Airlines often reimburse reasonable costs while a bag is delayed. Ask what your airline covers.
Know your rights
The UK Civil Aviation Authority explains claims for delayed, damaged and lost baggage.
Left something in the terminal?
That goes to lost property. See lost and found.
Sources
Last checked 12 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Details at the airport change often; the airport's website and your airline have the final word.