(Image: submitted)
Passengers travelling through Leeds Bradford Airport can now enjoy faster security processing and shorter waiting times following the opening of a new state-of-the-art Central Search Zone.
The facility marks a major milestone in the airport's transformational LBA:REGEN programme and introduces advanced screening technology designed to improve the customer experience while significantly increasing capacity.
From October, three new extra-long security lanes will be in operation, with a further two lanes set to open before the end of the year.
Once fully operational, the new system will double the airport's current security screening capacity.
Airport chiefs say the Central Search Zone is one of the most significant improvements to passenger facilities in recent years and places Leeds Bradford Airport among the leading UK regional airports for security technology.
The new area includes dynamic virtual queue management, allowing staff to monitor and manage passenger flow more effectively during busy periods, as well as six eGates for boarding card scanning to speed up entry into the security search area.
Dedicated routes have also been introduced for Passengers Requiring Assistance and Fast Track customers, creating a smoother journey through the terminal.
The upgraded operation is capable of processing up to 600 passengers per hour on each lane, compared with approximately 350 passengers per hour previously.
Airport leaders believe this will reduce queues, improve resilience and create a more comfortable experience for travellers.
READ MORE: Leeds Bradford Airport strike dates announced - here's when
Passengers will benefit from next-generation Leidos screening equipment and Rohde & Schwarz body scanners, enabling them to leave electronics and liquids under 100ml inside their bags during the screening process.
The Central Search Zone has been designed as a brighter and more open environment, forming part of wider improvements across the airport.
As part of the redevelopment, travellers will also gain access to new escalators leading directly to World Duty Free.
The retailer's new first-in-flow store will cover more than 1,000 square metres, roughly double the size of the current outlet, and will introduce new brands including Charlotte Tilbury.
Leeds Bradford Airport chief executive Vincent Hodder described the opening as a landmark moment for the airport.
He said: “The opening of our new Central Search Zone is a landmark moment for Leeds Bradford Airport and a major milestone in the delivery of our LBA:REGEN programme.
“This is a truly transformational investment that will significantly enhance the passenger experience. Not only are we increasing capacity, but we're introducing some of the most advanced security processing technology available at any UK regional airport.
“Most importantly, passengers will spend less time queuing and more time enjoying our terminal facilities before departure. The new environment is lighter, brighter, more intuitive and designed around the needs of today's travellers.”
The project forms part of Leeds Bradford Airport's long-term strategy to modernise infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and support future growth across Yorkshire and the North of England.
Airport officials say millions of passengers are expected to benefit from the improvements every year.
It comes as a strike over pay is due to take place at the airport on Friday, October 16, and involves workers from air traffic control, customer experience, security, and cleaning teams.
The industrial action will run until 6am on Sunday, October 18, with air traffic control staff beginning their strike from 6am on the Friday.
Unite the union said the dispute centres on pay, with workers seeking parity with colleagues at other UK airports.
Discussions have been ongoing since December 2025, but Unite said the airport’s formal offer does not address pay discrepancies.