Heathrow airport has warned travellers that the experience will come secondary to safety measures this Christmas travel period.
With London about to move into tier three restrictions, the airport has issued a reminder about Covid-19 guidelines as the festive travel period approaches.
Only people travelling will be allowed access to terminals so welcoming and farewell parties must stay in their cars or at home.
Heathrow said this policy will ensure that unnecessary numbers are not waiting in terminals as the airport focuses on getting passengers away.
Those preparing to fly are being asked to wrap up warm as they may be asked to wait outside terminals if congestion starts to build.
Managed areas outside the terminals, which will be under cover, are being prepared, alongside additional staff who will provide assistance.
Passengers were also reminded that face coverings are mandatory at the airport.
Kathryn Leahy, airport operations director, said: “Protecting our colleagues and customers is always our number one priority.
“In the coming days and over the Christmas period, our terminals are likely to feel busy and we will need to manage this carefully.
“We are asking passengers to support us in maintaining social distancing, wearing facemasks and following the instructions of the additional Covid marshals we will have on duty.
“That way, working together, we can ensure a safe and swift getaway for everyone.”