Auckland Airport has launched a permanent Prepared Passenger Lane that provides a faster path through security for frequent flyers following a successful trial.
The new lane, developed in collaboration with the Aviation Security Service, is designed for passengers who have emptied their pockets, taken electronic devices out of their hand luggage, and are ready for inspection.
According to Auckland Airport’s general manager operations, Anna Cassels-Brown, the success of the quick turnaround project was down to Auckland Airport and Aviation Security Service staff working together to find creative ways to smooth the journey for traveling customers.
She added, “It’s a great example of two different organizations working together, testing ideas, seeing what works, and making a difference for our customers. While we are getting on with progressing our plans for a new domestic jet facility, we need to ensure passengers have the best experience possible in our current domestic terminal.”
The Prepared Passenger Lane is currently used during the weekday morning peak, but it could also be quickly deployed at other times, according to Aviation Security Service group operations manager Karen Urwin. “If there was disruption to flights, say a weather event, and we needed to process a large number of passengers quickly, then we have the option of opening the Prepared Passenger Lane for those who are familiar with the screening process,” she continued. “We know it can take a bit longer for people with young children to pass through security screening, so creating a lane during periods when more families are traveling provides an option if you need extra time to prepare your family group.”
As well as the Prepared Passenger Lane, Auckland Airport worked with the Aviation Security Service to make changes to the domestic terminal’s screening area, which has added around 72m2 (775ft2) to the pre-screening queuing space.