Key upgrades to Guernsey Airport security assets completed

Passengers flying out of Guernsey Airport should now enjoy a smoother journey from Check-in through to Departures following a programme of significant upgrades to both the Hold Baggage System (HBS) and Central Search Area (CSA).

These upgrades form part of the Guernsey Airport Security Upgrades programme and directly support Guernsey Ports’ aims of maintaining safety and regulatory compliance whilst improving the passenger experience.

After passengers are checked in, the Hold Baggage System processes and screens their hold baggage prior to loading onto aircraft. To ensure compliance with the latest aviation security standards, Guernsey Airport’s HBS has now been upgraded to the latest standard. 

Passengers then pass through the Central Search Area on their way to Departures. New state-of-the-art cabin baggage scanners and associated systems have recently been installed.    This includes a new footwear scanner which means that the majority of passengers will no longer need to remove their shoes, saving time and inconvenience.

As this is a live environment, the new equipment has been soft launched to enable security services staff to complete training whilst fine-tuning of the new equipment and procedures is completed.

Guernsey Ports’ Head of Passenger Operations and Aviation Security Steve Langlois said:

“Security regulations in the aviation world have become increasingly demanding in recent years, largely as a result of events elsewhere. However, that inevitably impacts on us in Guernsey, if we want to retain access to domestic and international travel networks.

“Continued investment in our security assets is essential to improve the experience for our passengers and to ensure Guernsey Airport remains open, safe and secure, both now and in the future.”

Mr Langlois wished to acknowledge the efforts and understanding while the works have been carried out: 

“I would like to thank the programme team and our service partners for ensuring a smooth and successful delivery of these vital upgrades. Most of all, I wish to thank the travelling public for their patience during what has been an extended period of disruption. 

“These upgrades will deliver a range of improvements to the passenger experience and the working environment of our security staff, all of which should be particularly evident at peak times.”