New security measures not a return to normal, say airport authorities

Scotland’s key airports united today to issue a joint appeal to passengers flying from the country’s major gateways.

“Arrive early, arrive prepared” is the message from airport operators around the country as they get ready to implement new Government security restrictions.

New security rules will apply across all UK and EU airports from 2.00am on Monday 6 November. Under the new measures, passengers will be allowed to bring limited amounts of liquids through security search areas.

However, airport authorities have stressed that other restrictions remain in place and that the change does not represent a return to normal.

BAA Scotland, owners of Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen Airports, has joined forces with Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (HIAL), which operates ten airports across Scotland, Infratil Airports Europe, which operates Glasgow Prestwick Airport, and Dundee City Council, operators of Dundee Airport, to ensure passengers comply with new security restrictions.

Over half a million clear plastic bags will be distributed to passengers at Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen Airports over the next few weeks. Extra staff will also be drafted in to help passengers, and leaflets and posters will be distributed throughout the terminals.

BAA Scotland spokesman Malcolm Robertson said: “It is important that Scotland’s airports work together to communicate these new restrictions to passengers, and to ensure there is a consistent and coordinated response across Scotland.

“Despite the relaxation of certain security restrictions, this is not a return to normal and we will be drafting in extra staff over the new few days and weeks to ensure the transition to the new security system is a smooth and safe process. It is important that passengers play their part by arriving at the airport early, and fully prepared.

“That means removing coats and jackets for security screening and limiting liquids to 100mls contained in clear, sealable plastic bags, which will be available throughout our terminals. To help reduce waiting times, we would encourage passengers who are checking-in luggage to pack any liquids in their suitcase.”

He added: “We appreciate that some passengers may have questions or concerns about the latest measures but our staff are fully briefed and will be on hand to offer help and assistance.”

Inglis Lyon, Managing Director of HIAL, said: "Airport operators across Scotland are taking a coordinated approach to the introduction of the revised security measures. At HIAL we want to ensure that passengers have a smooth transition through our terminals while ensuring their safety and security. Passengers have a key part to play in this by ensuring they are prepared for the security regulations that are in place while we will ensure that the measures are applied with consistency."

Mark Rodwell, Chief Executive of Glasgow Prestwick Airport, said: “We have handled all of the security changes to date particularly well and we anticipate that the changes effective from Monday, while a challenge for our passengers and staff, can also be properly managed.

“Passenger preparation is the key to the airport’s ability to provide fast and efficient security screening and we would encourage all passengers to take the time to pack correctly before arriving at the airport. Extra resources will be engaged to man the screening points to ensure the smooth implementation of these government regulations.”

A Dundee City Council spokesman said: "We all recognise the importance in ensuring standards in airport security are consistent across all UK airports. We assure our customers that we shall be pleased to offer information and advice to passengers on the new restrictions at check-in."