‘Ridiculous’ queue stretches outside Bristol Airport again amid a staffing shortage

Passengers arriving at Bristol Airport were left queuing for more than an hour - and from outside the terminal building - after another staffing shortage impacted waiting times this morning (May 11).

The problems this morning led to complaints voiced on social media and came only a week after a similar situation at the airport on May 3.

In response, the airport apologised to customers impacted during the early morning peak hours when, bosses said, the maximum queue time was 65 minutes. A spokesperson added: “On some occasions staff shortages can impact on waiting times and service standards.”

The airport said it was reviewing resources to adapt plans to meet demand.

Among those queuing this morning was Zico Shepherd, who arrived at 4am ahead of his 7am flight to Rhodes.

He said: “It was awful and was only getting worse as we got through security - it also delayed our take off for around an hour as we had to wait for other passengers then lost our slot to take off.”

Mr Shepherd was not the only person to take to Twitter to share his anger about the situation.

Penelope Vowell Doe said: “What an utter shambles this morning. A deeply unpleasant experience.”

Russ Lavington said: “Ridiculous queue for security. Surely you know how many people are due to arrive.

“What a joke of a place, so badly organised, how many people missed flights due to inept running of the airport.”

Beth Roche said: “Absolute chaos this morning.

“Queue for security the length of the airport outside - up to two hours of standing in the queue now.”

Jack G8DX said: “4am chaos at Bristol Airport - two of five security checkpoints operational yet staff standing around idle at the fast track check-in.

“Passengers are now queuing downstairs. Nice work.”

Bristol Airport currently advices passengers arrive at least two hours before their flight time.

To help with queues, the airport is also urging people to come prepared for security by having their belt removed and liquids and laptops in separate bags.