It is an airline thing... the airport itself doesn't really dictate the timings. Indeed, some airlines have considerably shorter check in cut off times.. but for LHR, I would allow plenty of time. A lot of people make the mistake of thinking LHR is an airport.. it is a shopping mall which happens to have airplanes. They are far more interested in selling you things than getting you to the plane on time. That is why it is such a zoo when you get in there.
Travelling to the airport by Tube was ill advised.. it is a long journey and the potential for something to go wrong is high. Next time try the Heathrow Express.. considerably faster, so if anything goes wrong you have more leeway.
Airlines have developed the attitude over the last decade or so that mistakes and the misfortunes of customers are a revenue opportunity. They see car accidents en-route to the airport as means of making more money from you... likewise, medical emergencies, etc. etc.. the Air Canada forum gives you plenty of background..
|