Open family lanes at airports, urges MEP

AIRPORT bosses are being urged to introduce ‘bairns’ lanes’ to help families get through security quicker when jetting off on holiday.

Alyn Smith MEP has written to Scottish airports pressing them to launch dedicated family lanes for stressed parents.

London Gatwick already offers an assistance lane for families and Edinburgh has introduced special lanes during busy periods.

Mr Smith said: ‘I fly nearly every week and I’ve seen first-hand how stressful it can be to go through security with a young family.

‘I recently visited Oslo Gardermoen Airport in Norway, and saw for myself the simplicity and effectiveness of a dedicated family lane.

‘It really speeds up the security process for solo travellers and it makes it much easier for young children.’

Scottish travel writer Robin McKelvie backed the proposal. He said: ‘This is a brilliant idea. Although families “sneaking ahead” may annoy the odd businessman, taking them out of the main line will ultimately make everyone’s life easier.’

Regional airport operator HIAL said: ‘We are always happy to look at suggestions that could improve the security process for passengers. However, the relatively low volume of passengers using our airports at any one time only merits a single security lane, with the exception of Inverness.’