Navigating to Heathrow Airport Amid Elizabeth Line Disruptions

Jordan Hartwell

Published: February 13, 2026 2:30 AM ET

Recent disruptions on the Elizabeth Line significantly affected travel to Heathrow Airport. Specifically, between Hayes & Harlington and Heathrow Terminal 4, schedules have been disrupted, with trains cancelled or altered. This issue is expected to persist until 11 am on Thursday, February 12.

Navigating to Heathrow Airport Amid Elizabeth Line Disruptions

In light of the disruptions, passengers can utilize alternative transportation methods. Tickets are valid without extra charges on the London Underground’s Piccadilly Line to and from the Heathrow terminals. Additionally, London Buses operate between Hayes & Harlington and Heathrow.

Travel Options and Journey Times

Route from Heathrow Terminal 4 to Hayes & Harlington:

Approximate journey time: 25 to 37 minutes depending on the chosen route.
34-minute option: Walk to Heathrow Terminal 4 underground, take the Piccadilly Line to Terminals 2 & 3, then board the SL9 Superloop bus to Harlington High Street/Sipson Lane, followed by a walk to Hayes & Harlington.
Faster option: 25-minute journey using the 555 bus to Hatton Cross Station, then the 90 bus to Brickfield Lane.
37-minute option: Take the Piccadilly Line to Terminals 2 & 3, walk to Heathrow Central Bus Station, then catch the 278 bus to Brickfield Lane.
Longer route: Approximately 51 minutes using the 555 bus to Hatton Cross and then the 90 bus to Hayes & Harlington Station.
Cycling the distance of 6.5 km takes about 24 minutes.

Route from Hayes & Harlington to Heathrow Terminal 4:

Fastest journey: Approximately 27 minutes. Walk to Brickfield Lane, take the 90 bus to Hatton Cross Station, and board the 490 bus to Heathrow Terminal 4.
32-minute option: 90 bus to Hatton Cross, then the Piccadilly Line to Terminal 4 Underground.
40-minute route: Walk to Harlington High Street, take the SL9 Superloop bus to Heathrow Central, and switch to the Piccadilly Line to Terminal 4.
Another bus-based journey lasts about 51 minutes using the 90 and 490 services.
Cycling the same distance takes roughly 24 minutes.

Accessible Travel Options

For those requiring accessible travel, there are options available that minimize walking, reduce changes, and ensure full step-free access. Nearby taxi ranks are also conveniently located to assist travelers.

In summary, while disruptions on the Elizabeth Line may pose challenges for reaching Heathrow Airport, alternative routes and services are readily available to ensure a smooth travel experience.