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Both security lanes at Guernsey Airport are once again open, after queues continued to get increasingly busy.
The temporary restriction to just one lane has been dropped earlier than planned, after problems started to take off because of the longer wait times.
The change to one lane happened because of the building works going on in the Security zone to expand the duty free area, but it meant queue times to get through security soared - flights like the redeye were the worst affected.
Please allow much more time than normal for Airport check-in & security during peak times, as improvement works to security continue. We're trying to deal with queues as much as possible. Aurigny red eye passengers with hold luggage should use this: https://t.co/KGKNuvGEoE. pic.twitter.com/LikJqMf687
— Guernsey Airport ✈ (@GuernseyAirport) 5 December 2018
Soon after the problems became clear, Guernsey Airport said it would work to try and reopen the other lane sooner than it had planned. It is still urging people to arrive earlier for check in though, so everyone can get through security earlier.
"We have worked hard with all parties involved in this enhancement to get two lanes of security screening back in operation. I would like to thank all those involved in making this happen," General Manager, Ports Colin Le Ray, said.
"We are confident passengers and staff will benefit from more space, a better working environment, and an expanded range of duty-free shopping when the construction work is completed.
"There is never an ideal time to improve passenger facilities while keeping the terminal operational at the same time. But, this time of year was a good time to do the project, where it is relatively quiet when compared to our busy summer season.”
Security is getting an upgrade at the airport from Bailiwick Express on Vimeo.
Watch: Ash Nicolas speaking about the changes being made to the airport earlier this year.
Head of Aviation Services Ash Nicholas added: "We recognise no-one likes queuing for long periods, and we are urging passengers to still allow plenty of time to get through security. Like other airports the convenience of turning up at the terminal and expecting to get on your flight within 20 minutes are now coming to an end. Security procedures mean more time is required to get through screening, and the airport has no option but to introduce them when they are instructed to do so. “
Anyone requiring special assistance should continue to apply through their airline as normal, and the sunflower hidden disability lanyards are available from the airport information desk if required.
The work itself is part of a wider investment that Guernsey Airport has made to its passenger facilities and maintenance. Work to lay a new floor in departures has been taking place at the same time as the security upgrade.
The old blue carpet has now disappeared and been replaced with a hardwearing surface that will be easier to clean and be longer lasting. New LED lighting across the terminal has been installed, saving on long-term energy costs. The former Blue Islands lounge in departures has been taken away, and a free water fountain has been put in, which has been well received by airport passengers and users.
Pictured top: Queues at Guernsey Airport have been frustrating passengers.
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