Manchester Airport ‘cashing in on terror checks’
28.02.09
Manchester Airport have been accused by passengers of profiteering from anti-terrorism measures after a £1 charge for plastic security bags was introduced, the Manchester Evening News reports.
The clear bags were brought in at all British airports in response to fears that terrorists might try to smuggle liquid explosives on to planes. Liquids - including gels and pastes - carried in hand luggage must be in containers of less than 100mls, and in a clear, re-sealable bag with a one-litre capacity, so they can be x-rayed separately.
The bags were given to passengers for free until recently, but Manchester Airport has now set up a vending machine at security gates in Terminal 1 which dispense two reusable plastic bags for £1. Seven thousand people pass through the terminal each month.
James Fremantle, of the Air Transport Users Council, told the newspaper: ‘We're disappointed to see an airport making a quick buck at the expense of passengers.’ The machine will be in place for a three-month trial.
There is no charge of the bags at Heathrow and Gatwick, but Luton and Liverpool airports both charge passengers 50p for two. A spokesman for Manchester Airport said ‘It is a cost-saving measure but there is an element of profit.’
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