Massive queues have formed at airports across the country in recent weeks as holidaymakers continue to surge back following the end of Covid-19 restrictions.
The chaotic scenes have been so bad at Manchester Airport that managing director Karen Smart resigned this week. She stepped down after she was told to "get a grip" of the situation by politicians.
Leeds Bradford Airport has not suffered quite as badly as Manchester Airport since Covid restrictions were lifted. However, 67 passengers recently missed their flight at the Yeadon terminal as big queues formed at the security gates and chief executive Vicent Hodder has admitted the "unpredictable" customer experience is currently "not up to our high standards".
Read more: Leeds Bradford Airport reveals when two busiest times for queues during Easter holidays
Roughly 37,000 passengers are due to take to the skies from Leeds Bradford Airport over Easter, which could cause issues with a shortage of staff compounded by Covid-19 absences. Easter holiday jetsetters have been told to brace for longer waits than normal in the coming weeks, with chief executive Vincent Hodder issuing an urgent message to all customers.
He said: "The return of some normality to international travel after the past two years is very welcome news. However, we are currently contending with industry-wide issues in recruitment and staffing that are leading to longer times for passengers to move through the airport than usual.
"Although the disruption at LBA is not as severe as other airports, it is not up to our high standards. We would like to apologise to anyone who has experienced excessive queuing in recent weeks and ask for your continued patience as we do everything that we can to ensure a smooth journey for passengers.
"More staff are joining our team every week, so we do feel confident that the processes are in place to fix current issues. I hope everyone has an enjoyable Easter holiday and we look forward to seeing you at LBA soon."
Passenger numbers have returned to 76 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, but the airport has said it is struggling to recruit staff due to recent changes in Home Office accreditation. Leeds Bradford Airport said it has launched a major recruitment drive to fill roles though.
A spokesperson added that current employees will "actively manage queues to bring passengers forward if their flight is departing shortly" and prioritise staff deployment "at peak periods of travel".
Passengers were recently told that there are two main time slots when queues are most likely. These are between 5am and 9am, and in the late afternoon.
To avoid missing their flights, holidaymakers are being asked to arrive at the airport at least three hours early. Staff are also calling passengers to the front of the queue to ensure families do not get stuck in the queues and miss their flights.
All passengers are being asked to be prepared for the security process by removing liquids and electronic devices from their carry-on luggage. People are also being reminded to empty their pockets and take off boots or high heel hoes before arriving at the security gates.
There are a number of roles available at Leeds Bradford Airport. Anyone interested in applying should visit the website.
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