CHANGES TO THE STRUCTURE of and security operations at Albany Regional Airport are nearing completion. Set to function as a fully security-screened (Band 5) terminal as of 1 July 2012 in line with Federal Government legislative requirements, the airport’s new security-compliant structure is under construction, with an external module installed and power and electronics commissioned.
The recently installed security screening building is a stand-alone solution external to the existing Albany Airport terminal enabling the effective and efficient security screening of departing passengers through the terminal. It includes a security screening point (with explosive-\trace, walk-\through and hand-held metal detection equipment) and a separate waiting lounge for passengers through the screening point.
Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington said, “The external building option is the most effective solution to meet 1 July 2012 legislative requirements. It provides minimal disruption to the existing terminal layout and operations, offers maximum passenger amenity and delivers the best value for money for Albany ratepayers.”
MSS, the designated security authority and provider for the airport, has commenced training of security staff and plans to conduct security screening trials as of mid-June 2012. The Office of Transport Safety will inspect the terminal in late June to confirm full security compliance.
This upgrade is part of a nationwide security enhancement initiative that will make flying from Australian regional airports safer, and reflects Albany Regional Airport’s coming of age.
Mayor Wellington advised passengers departing from Albany Airport to be aware that new security screening enhancements mean they must arrive at the airport earlier.
“When planning your flight out of Albany, make sure you allow sufficient time. From 1 July 2012 passengers departing Albany Regional Airport are required to arrive at the airport earlier than current practice as security screening adds extra time to the boarding process,” he said.
“Departing passengers on Skywest flights must allow at least one hour prior to the scheduled departure time to check in. The check-in counter for Skywest flights departing from Albany will close thirty minutes before departure. Late arrivals not adhering to these conditions risk being denied travel.”
“Passengers are also requested to minimise confiscation and loss of prohibited items by ensuring they are not carrying anything prohibited, thereby minimising potential boarding delays,” said Mayor Wellington.
He encouraged passengers to visit http://travelsecure.infrastructure.gov.au/ to familiarise themselves with prohibited items, which can include, but are not limited to: weapons; sporting goods; kitchen utensils; tools; and other objects with sharp edges or points capable of injuring someone.
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