Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has introduced new security lanes designed to reduce waiting times for security checks. The upgrade is part of an initiative to improve operational efficiency.
How LBA’s New Security Lanes Work
The new central search zone features six eGates that scan boarding passes and advanced technology that lets passengers keep electronics and liquids under 100 ml in their bags. The new lanes can screen up to 600 passengers an hour, up from 350, with two more lanes to be added by the end of the year.
The airport also introduced a dynamic virtual queue management system while retaining separate routes for special assistance and fast-track customers. Vincent Hodder, the CEO at LBA, said:
“By doubling our current security capacity, we’re creating a more efficient, more comfortable journey for our customers.”
Security Queue Times at UK Airports
According to Flightqueue, the average security wait time at LBA is approximately 22 minutes. Waits are around 13 minutes during off-peak hours and can reach 33 minutes during peak hours.
UK government data for eight other UK airports in 2025 showed that the proportion of passengers waiting more than 20 minutes for security is relatively low, with the highest percentage being 10% in Birmingham, followed by 6% in Stansted and 5% in Manchester.
Would shorter security queues make you more likely to fly from Leeds Bradford Airport? Let us know in the comments!
