Broken Security Scanner Triggers Long Delays and Missed Flights at Jersey Airport

Passengers travelling through Jersey Airport this week were urged to arrive early after a malfunctioning security scanner caused lengthy queues and left several travellers stranded.

Airport officials issued an apology following reports that 17 passengers missed their flights on Thursday morning (13 November), when only one security scanner was operational.

Although the airport posted an update on social media the day before, many travellers said the warning fell short. Among them was Steve Wise, who described the scene as “a shambles.”

“I arrived at 6am and the queue stretched to the door”

“I arrived at 6am and the queue stretched to the door,” he said. “We were told nobody would miss their flight, and then told anyone on a 7am departure should move ahead—except nearly everyone was on one of the three full flights scheduled for that time.”

He added that communication needed to be significantly improved to prevent similar issues in the future.

Despite the disruption, all affected passengers eventually travelled. In a statement, Jersey Airport said:

“We’re sorry for the disruption this morning at Jersey Airport. Queues at security were longer than usual, and unfortunately a small number of people missed their flights. That’s not the experience we want for anyone. One of our security scanners was out of service, which caused delays for early travellers. Extra team members were deployed, but we recognise it wasn’t enough.”

Sarah-Louise Stubbs, Head of Terminal and Customer Operations, told Channel 103 that passengers should always allow time for unexpected delays, especially during early-morning departures.

“People often leave it too late to check in or reach security and are surprised when queues form,” she said. “Some arrive just 30 minutes beforehand, which is bound to lead to disappointment.”

The terminal opens at 5:30am, which Stubbs described as the ideal arrival time for early flights. Later in the day, travellers are advised to allow two hours before departure—or 90 minutes for Blue Islands services.

“Even in winter, we remain just as busy,” she added.

The faulty scanner has since been repaired and is now back in operation.