As a one-man, self-funded startup where every dollar counts, maintaining status is critical. It's much more than legroom and upgrades, it's also lower fees for some last-minute fares and the ability to sometimes change flights within 24 hours of departure for zero fee.
In September I made it from the curb to the gate at Heathrow in 27 minutes--it wouldn't have been possible without the agent at the United Elite desk.
27 minutes isn't that fast for heathrow. I assume it wasn't T5? In there, even in non-business I've made it from the entrance to the gate in about 15. Entirely depends on the state of the queues, though.
Being able to do it in 27 minutes reliably would be a real asset, though. I'd never, ever bank on being able to get through that quickly as inevitably something goes wrong.
This is really the problem with all the airports. The check-in/security line is too variable, so showing up really early is the only safe bet.. Then you end up sitting around in the airport. Or alternatively showing up with the about right amount of time, and missing the flight once every dozen or so trips because the security line is wrapped around the building because of some random news tidbit that sends 50% of the precheck through the naked scanner/whatever.
UA is T2 @ LHR. Dedicated luggage drop + "Gold Track" security means you should be able to do it pretty quickly. The problem is that the UA gates are at a satellite, so you've got a min 10 min walk to get to them.
In September I made it from the curb to the gate at Heathrow in 27 minutes--it wouldn't have been possible without the agent at the United Elite desk.