Ronaldsway Airport has unveiled a series of operational updates ahead of the busy summer period, including security machine upgrades and reduced aerodrome closures from tomorrow.
The airport is upgrading its security screening equipment in the main terminal to comply with UK Department for Transport (DfT) regulations.
The work, which begins on Thursdat will be paused during TT to minimise disruption before resuming afterwards.
The airport said: “The installation is required to meet DfT security standards. Passenger procedures will remain unchanged — liquids under 100ml must be placed in clear plastic bags, and laptops must be removed from hand luggage during screening.”
Only one security machine will be operational at a time during the upgrades, potentially leading to longer queues. However, the airport confirmed additional staff will be deployed to assist.
“We will closely monitor the situation to minimise disruption wherever possible,” the airport added.
Closures
From May, the airport will reduce scheduled air traffic control (ATC) closures, which were introduced in 2023 due to staff shortages.
Currently, the aerodrome closes twice daily (8:30–9:05am and 11:00–11:35am), but many of these will now be scrapped.
The change follows successful ATC training programmes. “Thanks to ongoing training of air traffic controllers, we are now able to adjust staffing rosters to reduce the impact on daily operations,” the airport said.
However, some closures will remain during periods with no scheduled flights. “Training a new air traffic controller takes 3–4 years, and experienced controllers relocating still require 6–18 months for local certification,” the airport noted.
Passengers can expect fewer disruptions, particularly for delayed flights.
Relocation
The repack area may experience temporary congestion due to the relocation of a contingency machine.
“Due to strict calibration requirements, machines cannot be relocated once installed,” the airport explained.
The upgrades were originally planned for winter but were delayed due to supply chain issues
The new machines are not the more advanced C3 scanners seen at some UK airports, which allow liquids and electronics to remain in bags.
“C3 scanners are significantly larger and require major terminal redevelopment, which is not currently viable. The DfT has not mandated their use for our airport at this time,” the airport confirmed.
Once future upgrades occur, the current machines will be repurposed for staff screening.
6 Comments