Speculation has been rife as to what effect the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II will have on air travel.

Around 15% of flights will be affected by the full scope of plans provided by LHR. 180 flights are at risk of being canceled or delayed. Our report Wednesday about the possible travel disruption surrounding the monarch's funeral led to the schedule changes.

Around 100 of British Airways' short-haul flights will be affected by the "air silence" on Monday, according to the airline.

In order to avoid noise disruption at certain locations on Monday, operations to and from the airport will be changed.

The airlines and the UK's National Air Traffic Services are working together to minimize the effects of the restrictions. Changes to flights will be necessary in order to observe these moments on Monday.

The U.K.'s most famous airport will change its flight schedule in September.

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What time will Heathrow pause air traffic for the queen’s funeral?

The skies of London will be quiet for two minutes on Monday to honor the Queen. The departures and arrivals will stop for 15 minutes before and after the funeral cortege arrives at Windsor Castle.

Planes will be diverted around Windsor Castle to minimize noise during the private family service and interment as a mark of respect for the Royal Family andhmq, who have been frequent travelers through Heathrow for over 70 years.

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/GETTY IMAGES

The queen was already 19 years old when the first airport in the UK opened.

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The airport will change its plans to pay respects at certain times in order to agree with the royal household and airlines.

  • 11:40 a.m. to 12:10 p.m.: No aircraft movements to support the two-minute silence at the end of the funeral.
  • 1:45 p.m. to 2:20 p.m.: No arrivals to support the procession of the hearse.
  • 3:05 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.: No departures to support the ceremonial procession via the Long Walk to Windsor Castle.
  • 4:45 p.m. to 9 p.m.: Will operate a reduced departure rate to support the committal service at St. George’s Chapel.

How many flights will be affected?

1,200 flights were expected to leave the airport on Monday, according to a person at the airport. If at least 15% of flights are altered, up to 180 flights could face being reprogrammed or canceled.

The team at LHR worked with airlines to make sure nobody was left in the dark. There should be little chance of last-minute cancellation because of how Heathrow has helped steady the ship.

The airlines have worked with us to make sure most passengers will be rebooked on other flights.

The flights were rearranged to honor the queen.

Rescheduling 15% of a day's flight operations is normal, likening it to a moderate weather event, according to the airport.

How will I know if my flight is affected?

Passengers affected by the changes will be contacted by their airlines about their travel plans. Passengers who don't have a confirmed seat on a flight should not go to the airport.

HOLLIE ADAMS/GETTY IMAGES

In order to smooth out any bumps on the day, the airport will deploy additional staff and update its website with passenger advice.

To find out what your options are, contact your carrier. If the staff isn't able to book you on the next available flight, you should be eligible for compensation as this is still under the control of the airlines

What about reaching the airport?

Even if your flight is safe, you might not be able to get to the airport in time. The best way to avoid traffic is to use the Piccadilly and Elizabeth lines.

The roads around the airport are expected to be very busy and passengers are urged to use public transport instead.

Some passengers will be affected by these exceptional circumstances, and we apologize for that.

Are there any other issues expected at Heathrow?

Airport staff will observe the National Moment of Reflection with a one-minute silence at 8pm on Sunday, September 18.

Shops that aren't essential will close on Monday. Before you get to your terminal, be sure to stock up on currency, reading material and other items. The cafes and restaurants are not expected to close.

Click here to find out what to expect when traveling from other airports in the capital.

The photo was taken by Dan Kitwood