Grant Shapps has cut security checks by half for new airport baggage handlers in a bid to get holidaymakers off to the sun on time.
The Transport Secretary says counter-terror clearance is now down from 20 days in March to 10 days now.
And that is designed to enable the aviation industry to quickly replace staff they let go during the pandemic.
Mr Shapps said: “The Government is doing its bit to help deliver for passengers. Now the industry must fulfil its responsibilities.
“People have made huge sacrifices during the pandemic and deserve their flights to run on time without being cancelled last minute.”
Aviation staff working airside have now gone to the top of the queue when checks are being made by police and MI5 as to their suitability.
They include baggage X-ray screeners, coach drivers, engineers, maintenance crews and the people who wheel the steps up to the aircraft.
They will even be allowed to train while waiting for security clearance or references from previous employers. And HMRC employment letters will be enough to get hired.
UK airports have been blamed for flight disruption because they took government grants while shedding jobs when planes were grounded by Covid restrictions.
But Unite boss Sharon Graham said: “Our money was handed over to firms without any strings attached.
“They did not protect jobs. Many just used public money to prop up their share price.”
British Airways alone got rid of 10,000 staff and is now trying to lure ground handlers back with £1,000 golden hellos. Midlands airport laid off nearly half its workers during the pandemic.
Now Mr Shapps is desperate to avoid the mess airports were in over Easter when flights were cancelled at the last minute because of the lack of staff.
And he has told airlines that if flights must be cancelled they must do so in good time so travellers can make other arrangements.
