Stansted security boss on new security lanes roll out

A BOSS at Stansted Airport says the new scanning security lanes being rolled out will mean passengers will go through security quicker than ever.

Martin Bendrey, head of security at Stansted Airport, spoke with the Gazette about the airport’s new security lanes and their benefits.

The 17 new lanes are part of the ambitious billion-pound project which includes a terminal expansion, and many other upgrades throughout the site.

So far 11 of the new lanes are in use by passengers, and the “old legacy lanes”, as Mr Bendrey puts it, will be reduced and are expected to fully close at some point in the future.

Stansted Airport - one of the new security lanes(Image: NQ)

The new lanes are not only more spacious and with a brighter lighting, they have a range of benefits, Mr Bendrey said: “The lanes are a newer version of what we’ve had previously, they have an upgraded technology inside them.

"They have enhanced scanning equipment to further ensure the safety and security of our passengers, whilst getting people through security more quickly.

"These new lanes will also mean passengers do not need to take as many items out of their bags, removing the need for the plastic bags and items such as laptops and liquids can remain inside bags.

"This will really improve the processing time, effectively enabling passengers upon arrival in security to place their bag/items into a tray and process through our body scanners more efficiently, keeping the flow moving. 

Boss - Martin Bendrey(Image: NQ)

The new lanes by design are able to process an increased number of people per hour, compared to that of our old legacy lanes.

However, there are a “lot of factors involved in being able to achieve that”.

If passengers come with a carry-on rucksack and suitcase, they will potentially have to use two trays which makes processing time longer.

It’s important for all the messaging to be right before passengers to get to security so they know exactly what they need to do.

As construction work is still ongoing in the security hall and there will be changes made to the hall’s entrance with new individual boarding pass scanners added, it will be a while before all new security lanes are active.

Old - one of the old security lanes in use(Image: NQ)

Mr Bendrey said: “The programme is still ongoing at the moment, and we are currently working towards an implementation date of early next year for the full suite of new Security lanes.

“The challenge doesn’t stop there, we are starting work on our new front entrance to security, which will include a new set of boarding card readers and a new modernised look and feel."

The Essex resident has been in the role for 7 months so far and oversees a workforce of nearly 1,200 employees.

After 17 years in the rail industry, he adores his job in aviation.

He said: “I’ve always wanted to work in aviation, I’m hugely passionate about it.

Spacious - one of the new security lanes being used(Image: NQ)

“This role came up, it’s a big role, a big responsibility.

“It’s absolutely the kind of role I wanted to get into, Stansted Airport is my local airport, the stars aligned.

“I’m absolutely loving it, every day is different, It is certainly keeping me on my toes.”