UK airports are preparing for a busy Easter period following the removal of pandemic-related travel measures. From ensuring terminals are open and prepared to recruiting the right staff, airports throughout the country have been working hard to prepare for the expected boost in passenger traffic.
While airports are increasing their staff to help accommodate the increased passenger numbers, a combination of a tight labour market, delays in the necessary government security checks for new and returning staff as well as COVID-19 related absences (as seen over the weekend) could put some airport operations under strain.
In addition, with many passengers not having flown for two years, airports are reminding passengers of what is the same when travelling through the airport, as well as what has changed.
Check-in is taking longer, so airports are advised to remind passengers to arrive early to allow plenty of time and to make sure they have the necessary documentation (tickets, passport and COVID-19 related documents) to hand on arrival. They are also being advised to pack hand luggage carefully and make sure all liquid items (in max. 100ml containers) are in clear resealable plastic bags when passing through security. Laptops should be removed from hand luggage, as well tablets and mobile phones and to alert passengers to the possible requirement to remove belts, shows and other items of clothing as well as items of jewellery before going through the security archway.
To avoid delays for passengers returning to the UK, travellers are being advised to check whether they are eligible to use the ePassport gates, to remove hats, headphones and sunglasses when passing through an eGate or a Border Force officer, as well as to stay in family groups.
At Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LJLA) where 170,000 passengers are expected to pass through the airport over the next two weeks, Robin Tudor, Head of PR for LJLA said: “We are looking forward to the return of the Easter getaway once again bringing the busiest holiday period of the year so far for the Airport, with passengers taking advantage of our faster, easier, friendlier passenger experience here at Liverpool now that the last of the Government’s covid related international travel restrictions have been lifted.”
He added that although the airport isn’t expecting lengthy queues for passengers, “travellers should remember that security restrictions regarding items in hand luggage prior to the pandemic remain in place and because the airport will be busier than usual, they should allow plenty of time to pass through the terminal.”
Meanwhile, the Airport Operators Association’s Chief Executive, Karen Dee, highlighted that airports have been preparing for this turn of passenger traffic for some time, “but at peak times passengers may not have the experience they are used to. Airports are working hard to recruit more staff in a very competitive labour market and are working with the UK government to resolve any delays in the necessary checks before staff can start work.
“For many passengers this will be the first time they have travelled abroad since the beginning of the pandemic and the processes required may seem unfamiliar. The advice airports (and airlines) are issuing should help ensure passengers are as prepared as they can be.”
