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Stornoway Airport security is the worst experience 3/8/10
Sirs,
As a frequent flyer with many airlines and through many airports, and
fully aware of the security requirements of airports in the day that we
live in, when it comes to going through security, Stornoway Airport is
by far the worst I have ever come across. So much as to say that it's a total invasion of one's privacy.
Let me explain. The last time I went through, all I had was my laptop and laptop bag. In that bag there was three mobile phones, an I pod, a book, and my medication tablets, that's all.
So, I take the laptop out of the bag and send it through the scanner
followed by the bag. Once through the scanner the bag gets lifted and
put on the floor and there it sits with another four bags from other
passengers.
Next thing, I'm asked by the security fellow, -
But I said to him, “it has already been through the scanner.”
“Please sir, do as I ask,” says Old Fogey.
So, I do as he asks. “Do you always travel with three phones, sir?”
“Yes Sir, I do. One for Singapore, one for UK and one for Ivory coast,” I said.
“Mmmmm,” said Old Fogey, “and what are these tablets, sir.”
“That's medication that I'm on,” I said.
“There's an awful lot,” said Old Fogey.
“Yes,” I said, “It's a month's supply.”
“Do you carry a prescription for these asks Old Fogey.
“Yes. Aa a matter of fact I do,” which I showed him.
“Mmmmm,” said Old Fogey. Then he flicks through my book and loses my page as the book marker falls out.
“Mmmm said Old Fogey.
All goes through the scanner again and I'm told then to move on as the plane is boarding soon.
So standing there, shoeless, and trousers working towards the ankles, it is rush rush to board the plane. It did not bother me too much, but I really felt sorry for the elderly couple that was behind me, as they were going through the same interrogation, I heard the elderly gentleman comment, I'm never coming here again, I've never been so embarrassed he said.
So, perhaps there is somebody out there at HIAL who can justifiably tell Joe public why Stornoway Airport is so different to any other airport in the world when it comes to security?
Donald Maciver
2 Aird Tong
Lewis