The Week In Travel

Heathrow Airport has launched a six-month trial of pre-booked security slots for departing passengers this week, with the intention of reducing wait times. The service is initially available for travellers flying with American Airlines, Delta, Emirates, and Virgin Atlantic from Terminal 3, and may expand to more carriers. Eligible passengers can book slots for free, arriving up to 15 minutes before or after their scheduled time. The trial’s success will determine if it’s extended to other terminals.

Staying in the UK, IAG, the parent company of British Airways and Aer Lingus, is partnering with Aurrigo International to bring autonomous aviation solutions to the UK. This collaboration begins with a four-month evaluation phase and a £250,000 trial program at a major UK airport. Aurrigo’s autonomous vehicles, which will provide baggage transport and cargo solutions, will be deployed across the country by the first half of 2025.

Over in America, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has undertaken a new project that will connect Terminal 3 at the airport to the Tom Bradley International Terminal, providing unrestricted pedestrian access across all eight airport terminals. This expansion is part of a broader $15 billion capital improvement program set to be completed by 2027, enhancing efficiency and accessibility at one of the world’s busiest airports.

In Europe, Air Malta will cease operations on March 30, 2024, with the Maltese government working to establish a new national airline with a workforce continuity commitment. The new carrier, prioritising financial sustainability, will launch on March 31, 2024, with an initial fleet of eight planes. Existing tickets for travel until March 30, 2024, remain valid, and refunds will be issued for bookings beyond that date, starting November 1, 2023. Tickets for the new airline will be available from December 1, 2023.

And finally, a dad who thought it would be hilarious to put his son on a baggage carousel at Canberra Airport has managed to dodge any penalties. The 58-year-old businessman from Brisbane pleaded guilty but insisted he didn’t know it was against the rules. His son’s joyride was caught on camera, and airport staff later gave the family a talking-to. The judge saw the funny side and decided it was more of a “whoopsie” than a major crime. No fines, no record – just a classic airport caper.