Airport terminal walk

Here is how long the walk to your gate takes, and how much time you have to spare.

Your details

900 m to the gate at brisk, 3.5 mph

9 min

16 min to spare before the gate closes

Security and queues25 min
On moving walkways200 m (walking on them adds about 40 m a minute)
Door to gate in total34 min

Gates often close 20 to 30 minutes before take off, so check your boarding pass. Ask for assistance in advance if you need help getting around the airport; it is free.

The working

900 m at a brisk 3.5 mph, 200 m on walkways

Walking 700 m at 94 m a minute and 200 m on walkways at 134 m a minute takes about 9 minutes. With 25 minutes for security that is 34 minutes, leaving 16 to spare before the gate closes.

Easier trips

Help is free

UK airports must offer free assistance to anyone who needs it, from a wheelchair to help through security. Book it at least 48 hours before you fly.

Gate tips

From the departure lounge

Check the gate walking time on the screens
Use the toilet before the walk
Walkways: stand on the right, walk on the left

Read with care

What this cannot tell you

Know your airportSigns often give walking times.
Predict queuesAllow extra in busy times.
Hold the planeSadly not.

Questions

Common questions

How long does it take to walk to an airport gate?

Usually 5 to 20 minutes from security, longer at big hubs.

How fast is a moving walkway?

Around 0.6 to 0.75 m a second, so walking on it adds about 40 m a minute.

When does the gate close?

Often 20 to 30 minutes before departure; check your boarding pass.

Can I get help at the airport?

Yes, ask your airline or the airport for free special assistance.

Sources

Last checked 21 October 2026. Spotted something wrong? Tell us and we will fix it.

Look after yourself

Stop if anything hurts. See a GP or physiotherapist about pain that lasts or keeps coming back, and call NHS 111 if you are unsure.