Travellers flying from one of Britain's busiest airports are being warned to brace themselves for extensive security queues that could add hours to their journey time.
Major Delays at Security Checkpoints
Manchester Airport has issued an urgent alert to passengers after security waiting times ballooned to over two hours during peak periods. The airport's management confirmed that the lengthy delays are primarily affecting the security screening areas, with the situation becoming particularly severe during early morning hours when multiple flights are scheduled for departure.
Airport officials have pointed to a combination of factors creating the perfect storm for travel disruption. The ongoing half-term holiday period has led to a significant surge in passenger numbers, while staffing challenges continue to impact operational efficiency.
Essential Advice for Travellers
To minimise disruption to your journey, Manchester Airport recommends:
- Arrive three hours before your flight - even for short-haul destinations
- Ensure all liquids and electronics are easily accessible in hand luggage
- Check the airport's social media channels for real-time queue updates
- Consider booking fast-track security where available
Industry-Wide Challenges
The queue issues at Manchester reflect broader challenges facing the UK aviation industry as it struggles to ramp up operations following pandemic-era cutbacks. Many airports reduced staff during lockdowns and are now finding it difficult to recruit and train new security personnel quickly enough to meet resurgent travel demand.
Passengers have taken to social media to share images of snaking queues extending through terminal buildings, with some reporting near-miss experiences with their flights despite arriving with the recommended three-hour buffer.
An airport spokesperson stated: "We sincerely apologise to all passengers affected by these extended waiting times. We're working tirelessly to manage the situation and advise all travellers to allow extra time for their journey."
