Leeds Bradford Airport opens new security area with major boost for passengers

Leeds Bradford Airport has opened a new security area which it says will eventually double its screening capacity.

The airport's new Central Search Zone has opened ahead of a further expansion later this year, with three new extra-long security lanes now in use.

Two more lanes are due to open by the end of the year, taking the total to five and doubling the airport's current security screening capacity.

The new facility is designed to reduce queues and speed up the process for passengers travelling through security, with each lane capable of processing up to 600 passengers an hour.

That compares with around 350 passengers an hour under the previous system.

The airport says the new Central Search Zone will also use technology to manage queues dynamically, allowing staff to respond to busy periods and control the flow of passengers.

Six new eGates have been installed to scan boarding cards before passengers enter the security search area.

There are also dedicated routes for passengers requiring assistance and those using Fast Track.

The new security area has been fitted with next-generation screening equipment, including Leidos technology and Rohde & Schwarz body scanners.

Passengers will be able to leave electrical items and liquids of less than 100ml inside their hand luggage when going through security.

The development will also see new escalators installed leading directly to World Duty Free in the departure lounge.

The airport's new World Duty Free store is more than 1,000 square metres in size – around twice the size of the existing shop.

It will also feature new brands, including Charlotte Tilbury, which is arriving at Leeds Bradford Airport for the first time.

Vincent Hodder, chief executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said the opening marked a "landmark moment" in the airport's LBA programme.

He said the investment would "significantly enhance" the passenger experience by increasing capacity and introducing new security technology.

Mr Hodder added: "Most importantly, passengers will spend less time queuing and more time enjoying our terminal facilities before departure."

The Central Search Zone is part of the wider LBA programme, which aims to modernise Leeds Bradford Airport and increase its capacity as passenger numbers continue to grow.

The airport says millions of passengers will benefit from the new facility each year.