Manchester Airport has revealed a simple but effective hack to help passengers breeze through security: choose the left lane over the right. The tip is based on the fact that most people are right-handed, leading them to subconsciously favour the right side, making left lanes less crowded.
Busiest June on Record
This past June was Manchester Airport's busiest month ever, welcoming more than 3 million passengers. Of those, 92% waited ten minutes or less to walk through security, a figure the airport attributes in part to these helpful tips.
Why Left Works
The reasoning behind the hack is psychological. Since the majority of the population is right-handed, they naturally gravitate toward the right when given a choice. By consciously picking the left lane, passengers can avoid the herd and save time.
Personal Testimony
Metro's US news reporter Sarah Hooper has used the trick for years. 'I travel as much as I can, and being on time is my number one priority. A few years ago, I saw the trick that Manchester Airport has recommended – choose the left queues over the right, because most people are right-handed. Honestly? It's saved me a lot of headaches. I also use it day-to-day, while manoeuvring through busy Tube stations, while leaving concerts and at pubs. Maybe our subconscious is more powerful than we think!' she said.
Additional Security Tips
The airport also reminded passengers to keep liquids in 100ml or less bottles, even with new CT scanners installed. Liquids should be clearly labelled, and souvenirs like snowglobes or squishy toys should be placed in the 'liquids' bag. Another key tip: ensure all electronics are fully charged. Airport staff must be able to turn devices on for safety checks; uncharged or broken devices could be confiscated and passengers may even be denied boarding.
