Pre-booking security slots a UK first for Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport is the first in the UK to introduce pre-booking for security slots in a trial of the process and technology at Manchester Airports Group (MAG).

Airport passengers will be able to select 15 minute timeslots for passing through security checks via a dedicated pre-booking website launched this week. The new system aims to reduce queue length and provide a better experience of passengers who may be apprehensive of air travel following the pandemic.

Slot availability will be on a first-come-first-served basis, with passengers encouraged to aim to pass through security around two hours ahead of their flight departure time. Passengers who arrive outside their allotted time will be redirected to the main security queue.

The introduction of pre-booking at security is part of a range of measures being introduced at the airport to help passengers feel safer and more confident about flying. MAG was the first airport operator in the UK to request passengers use face masks or coverings, with customer facing staff also using PPE.

If successful at Manchester Airport, the pre-booking system will be used at security at London Stansted and East Midlands airports, both also run by MAG. The booking system was developed by MAGO: MAG’s in-house digital business providing online technology for airports.

Brad Miller, Chief Operating Officer at Manchester Airport, said:

“Safety and security will always be the first priority and, at the same time, Covid-19 will undoubtedly reshape the airport experience. We are exploring every innovation and technology that can help us to adapt to the new world, protect public health and restore confidence in air travel.

“This new measure will allow us to manage our security process more efficiently in these challenging times, providing a better and more comfortable experience for passengers.

“It is the latest in a series of measures introduced by MAG to make travel safer during the pandemic, which includes asking passengers and colleagues to wear face coverings and piloting temperature screening technologies.”