Belfast City Airport is an excellent resource right on the doorstep for us in North Down and as such we are keen to highlight the positive aspects of this airport. Normally for myself the transit from home is a reasonably easy one using train, the provided courtesy bus then through the airport onto the aircraft. Security is normally a breeze without the feeling of being singled out for no apparent reason.
Not so on this occasion, which as mentioned in video, was a truly filthy day not something that needed extra hassle. Before going for body check I have removed everything into my bag so can be assured there is no need whatsoever for any additional attention. However, not satisfied with initial scan I was then sent to body scan then to a foot scan. On top of which my bag needed additional attention. Obviously security is of utmost importance but if you have transited Heathrow security without a care yet have the same clothing, camera, phone, charger, leads, power bank and some additional purchased items, doubt and concern raises its head.
But is was check-in that provide the real annoyance, its bag drop!! I’ve already checked in online! So why did it take so terribly long? In fact having to finally swap queue to drop bag. Self check at Heathrow took 2 minutes including help on attaching label.
The gentleman servicing bag drop seemed to be trying to be jolly at the expense of any semblance of efficiency. Of course none of us know the full challenges of any particular employment especially if equipment appears to be on a loop of death.
But it was the Chinese, or that’s how they appeared to me, trio who were the subject of my sympathy. I suspect they were locals heading off on a trip and had, it appeared, booked an extra bag instead of extra weight. If you have a problem you expect to be assisted by the airlines customer service agent, but I was not aware of that happening no humanity was evident. Instead what was clearly a considerable cost had to be provided on credit card. If you see someone having to be comforted as they use the card then something is badly amiss. Not a good look!
As someone who is delighted to have this airport nearby I do hope to see its excellent standards retained.
On top of this experience transport to central London had issues.