Guernsey Airport had asked passengers to "allow extra time for their journey, as the half-term getaway begins this weekend" but despite some passengers getting to the airport before 06:00 for the first departures there were already queues past the check in counters (above).

Pictured: The entrance to Guernsey Airport's security area on a quieter day. 

With the work on expanding the security search and duty-free shopping areas at the airport already underway, it means that only one security lane will be in use for the foreseeable future, so Guernsey Airport has made plans with partner agencies including Aurigny and G4S to open up early to help passengers through the expected queues at busier times.

The check-in desks and security search area is now opening and fully operating for staff at 05:30, while the terminal, is opening earlier for passengers from 05:45 every morning whilst the construction work is being carried out.

Pictured: Ash Nicholas and Bryan Tyrrell with the plans for the new security and duty free area. 

Guernsey Airport’s Head of Aviation Services Ash Nicholas said:

“We are urging passengers who are due to travel this half term and beyond to follow ouradvice, check-in early, and allow plenty of time to get through the airport. We understand long queues, and reduced security screening will be frustrating for our departing passengers, but the expansion work is a necessary and unavoidable part of improving the passenger experience. The work has been planned very carefully to minimise disruption to terminal operations. Passengers travelling on Aurigny, with hold baggage, are encouraged to use their Twilight Baggage service, which allows travellers to check-in their hold baggage thenight before for the airlines ‘red-eye’ flights to London Gatwick and Manchester the following day. Passengers travelling without hold luggage are strongly encouraged to check- in online with their carrier whenever possible, and that can cut out the need for check-in at the Airport completely. We cannot stress enough that passengers should be present for their departing flight as early as they can - particularly for the red-eye flights.”

Pictured: The plan for the security areas will change the look of the airport. 

Passengers should visit Guernsey Airport’s webpage for tips on how to go through security efficiently.

Regular updates will be posted on the project’s progress on the airport's social media channels and to Bailiwick media outlets when key milestones are reached.

Pictured top: The queues at Guernsey Airport at 06:10, Friday 26 October.