Airport Chaos: Long Queues and Staff Shortages Slammed by Passengers
Travellers have faced hours-long waits and missed flights since mid-March as staff shortages hit UK airports hard. Some passengers were even forced to queue in car parks amid the chaos.
MAG Boss Quits Amid Crisis
Manchester Airports Group (MAG) has apologised, admitting recruitment struggles in the travel industry. On Tuesday, the firm’s managing director of 1 Smart unexpectedly stepped down. Meanwhile, baggage handler Swissport also apologised for delays in luggage delivery.
“The simple fact is that we don’t currently have the number of staff we need to provide the level of service that our passengers deserve,” said MAG chief executive Charlie Cornish.
Travel Warning Issued: Arrive Three Hours Early
Charlie Cornish urged passengers to arrive at least three hours before flying to avoid missing flights. He admitted the airport had been unable to hire staff quickly enough due to a tight labour market.
He warned: “While most passengers should get through in 30-40 minutes, some waits of 60-90 minutes are expected over the coming months.”
There is some relief on the horizon as about 250 new security staff are expected to start next month.
Easter Travel Surge Adds to Pressure
The chaos comes as airlines and airports struggle with a surge in demand over the Easter school holidays. Millions plan to head off on trips, with the Port of Dover reporting 30,000 departing passengers last weekend — triple the total for the same weekend in 2021.
Drivers are also being warned to brace for long delays on the roads as holidaymakers set off in droves.
Mr Cornish said he “cannot apologise enough for the disruption people have faced.”
