WITH passenger numbers forecast to be very close to pre-pandemic levels across the peak summer months, and with many people not having travelled in the last two years, the airport is highlighting the importance of passengers arriving at the terminal at the most appropriate time for their flights, and to familiarise themselves with all the usual security requirements.

Key steps to follow when travelling this summer:

• Follow your airline’s advice about when to arrive at the terminal for check-in or bag drop, and not too far in advance or after the advised time – arriving too early can create congestion and a less than pleasant airport experience
• Passengers should check for any road or rail disruptions that could affect their journey to the airport
• The restrictions on liquids carried in hand luggage continue to apply so it’s important they are all under 100ml and fit in a single clear, resealable bag, including any hand sanitiser that is being carried
• All electronic items, including laptops and iPads, need to be taken out of hand luggage and laid flat in your tray when you reach the security search area 

Nick Millar, London Stansted’s Operations Director, said:

“Following the lifting of international travel restrictions in March, airports across the UK, Europe and beyond have seen dramatic increases in passenger numbers as people make up for lost time and head off on well-earned holidays and trips to see family and friends.

“London Stansted has been one of the fastest recovering airports in the UK so to meet this surge in demand, we have worked extremely hard, along with our on-site partners, to get the airport back to where we need to be. 

“We’ve run a very successful recruitment campaign since January and filled hundreds of roles in our security operation to help deliver this service, and we continue to support our partners in the terminal, particularly retailers and restaurants, plus airlines, ground handlers and Border Force who have also been recruiting.

“As a result, our terminal operation and airline flight schedule have both performed well so far. We’ve experienced very few flight cancellations, and although the terminal is very busy, especially at peak times, our security process has been stable with passengers passing through on average in 15 minutes or less.

“We are very aware many passengers haven’t travelled now for a few years, so to remind them how they can minimise any unnecessary delays at the airport, we launched our ‘Take time, take care, take flight’ awareness campaign to highlight the important steps when planning for your journey.

“It’s really key that passengers follow the guidance, particularly about when to arrive at the terminal, as we have seen a big increase in passengers turning up many hours before their scheduled departure which can sometimes create unnecessary congestion.

“And to enhance the airport experience, the £12million upgrade of our departure lounge to deliver a host of new bars, restaurants, and retail outlets is due for completion in time for the main school holiday getaway later this month.

“It’s been great to see so many passengers back at London Stansted in the last couple of months, and although the peak summer months will be an even bigger challenge for all the teams at the airport, passengers can be confident we are all working very hard and doing all we can to ensure their holidays get off to the best possible start when choosing to fly from Stansted.”