Jersey Airport is prepping for a half-term travel surge, with over 9,000 passengers expected this weekend alone – and has opened a new family play area to keep little travellers entertained before take-off.
Throughout the week, more than 40,000 people are set to arrive and depart, prompting Ports of Jersey to urge travellers to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for check-in and security.
“There may be queues at busy times, but Ports of Jersey teams will ensure that everyone gets to their flights as quickly as possible,” the organisation said in a statement.
To improve the travel experience for families, a new family area has also opened in the departures hall ahead of the holiday period.
The new family-friendly area – located opposite the café in departures – was developed with input from local charity Brighter Futures, which supports families across the island.
Ports of Jersey’s head of customer experience, Sarah-Louise Stubbs, said: “I’m really pleased that we are developing a family area in departures where youngsters will be able to relax, draw, and read a selection of books before their flights.
“We will be adding more activities to this facility in the coming weeks and would be glad to hear any ideas from young people and their parents about what they would like to see in this space.”
Brighter Futures chief executive Fiona Brennan welcomed the initiative, saying: “It’s encouraging to see that Ports of Jersey is considering the experience of families in their designs for the new departures hall, and I’m pleased we could help with ideas for this family area.”
The charity will also provide input on the redevelopment of the main departure lounge later this year. Passengers can share their feedback via a QR code displayed in the family area.
Travel checklist: what passengers need to know
With thousands of travellers passing through, Ports of Jersey is reminding passengers to follow security guidelines and allow plenty of time to navigate check-in and security screening.
- Liquids: Restrictions on carrying more than 100ml of liquids in hand luggage remain in place. Liquids must be removed from bags and placed in a security tray but do not need to be in a plastic bag.
- Banned items: Check airline guidelines to ensure prohibited items aren’t packed in hand luggage.
- Boarding pass: Have it ready for inspection before reaching security.
- Security screening: Remove coats, boots, heels, and ensure pockets are empty before going through body scanning.
- Arrival times: Ports recommends arriving two hours before departure for most flights, and 90 minutes for Blue Islands flights.