First new baggage scanner arrives
THE first of two hold baggage scanners has arrived at Guernsey Airport.
There had been concerns that the project, which has been slow to progress, would create delays when free travel restarts this summer.
Currently hold luggage is having to be hand checked at random, as Guernsey did not meet security requirements.
The new machine is now being installed in a dedicated area constructed in the passenger terminal.
Guernsey Ports’ head of passenger operations and aviation security, Steve Langlois, said the delivery was a significant milestone in the project.
‘Extensive testing and commissioning of the HBS scanner will now take place before passengers’ hold baggage items are processed through it,’ he said.
‘The new system will remove the need for random manual searches of hold baggage by security staff.
‘The project team and specialist contractors are working hard to ensure the equipment is ready ahead of the planned change in travel restrictions on 1 July, despite the enforced delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.’
Passengers travelling with Aurigny on UK flights can check-in their hold baggage items on the afternoon prior to the day of travel. Its twilight check-in is open every day from 3 to 6.30pm.
Aurigny PR manager Jess Mauger said customer demand and flights had increased and UK flights are now operating daily.
‘We would strongly recommend our passengers use this service whenever possible on applicable services if travelling with hold baggage items.’
Check-in on the day closes 45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
