Travellers passing through Australia’s airports have encountered huge lines and delays, thanks to the beefed-up security measures implemented after the foiling of an alleged terror plot.
Following Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s warning that travellers should prepare for delays due to “enhanced and intensified” screening processes, significant queues formed in several of the nation’s major airports.
ABC reports that some passengers have experienced delays of up to 90 minutes.
Lines ahead of the security screening area at Sydney Airport formed well before sunrise, affecting Qantas and Virgin Australia passengers.
Pre-5am security screening – Sydney airport. pic.twitter.com/YTc3JFtSXc
— Graham Ross (@Graham__Ross) July 30, 2017
Busy #SydneyAirport #T2 #VirginTerminal this morning pic.twitter.com/Zdu2smRCyr
— Ricardo Gonçalves (@BUSINESSricardo) July 30, 2017
https://twitter.com/mattchamley/status/891759675187773440
Similar lines have been experienced at Melbourne Airport, with authorities warning that the delays will continue.
Victorian travellers were brilliant yesterday in helping new security measures to happen smoothly and with a minimum of fuss 1/2
— Melbourne Airport (@Melair) July 30, 2017
Today will be very busy so please do get to the airport at least 2hrs before scheduled departure. #teamvic
— Melbourne Airport (@Melair) July 30, 2017
https://twitter.com/brianinnovates/status/891760413951401984
Beefed up security #MelbourneAirport in wake of foiled Australian terror plot. I’ll have latest @NBCNightlyNews pic.twitter.com/5epfh1JCmD
— Sara James (@SaraJamesAus) July 30, 2017
Melbourne airport is stuffed. No chance of catching this flight
— Jackson Grant (@JacksonGrant15) July 30, 2017
Queues have also been experienced at Adelaide Airport.
Lengthy delays @AdelaideAirport as passengers face “intensified” screening in wake of #Sydney terror plot. DETAILS AT 6 @7NewsAdelaide pic.twitter.com/mpzUPYm67Z
— Elspeth Hussey (@ElspethHussey7) July 30, 2017
While the lines are reportedly being dealt with efficiently, travellers nationwide have been asked to arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow for the delays.
Safe travels, gang.
