Ongoing changes are being made by all countries to increase security in a number of different ways and are constantly being a amended. We would ask all our travellers to keep themselves updated with such information found as follows but also on relevant websites.

Should you have any questions or queries please contact us

 

 

Before your journey and at the airport;

 

Heightened airport security measures have increased the time needed at the airport and the variety of security measures you may encounter. The following tips may help smooth the process:

 

Allow extra time.

·    We strongly recommend you arrive at the airport a minimum of one hour prior to the scheduled departure time for domestic and European flights and two hours prior to departure for other international flights (the times in North America may differ). Those travelling with young children, infants, or persons with disabilities should allow extra time. Check with us for minimum check in times if uncertain.

·    Most airports are operating stricter security; you will therefore experience longer queues. Make your way to security as soon as you have checked in.

 

Pack carefully.

·    Avoid packing your carry on bags tightly so that it is easier for security personnel to check them.

·    For up to date security information please go to the following link on travel and baggage restrictions; https://www.gov.uk/hand-luggage-restrictions

 

·    Any scissors/tweezers or sharp objects should be packed in your hold luggage and not in your hand luggage

·    Small quantities of liquids are allowed to be carried in hand luggage (see link on security for more info and examples)

·    Hand luggage should not exceed the IATA standard size 56x45x25cm (for budget flights check with operator) otherwise you may be asked to check in the item/s.

·    When travelling within or returning from the United States, the Transportation Safety Administration recommends you do not lock your checked baggage, as the TSA may need to open it to complete security checks.

 

Baggage

 

Please ensure you make a note of your baggage allowance. This can be found on your eticket.

Strict regulations apply at most airports (generally in the UK) for weight and size of hand luggage. Although some airlines are now encouraging you take hand luggage over hold luggage (i.e. Budget airlines) the airports use the restrictions to safe guard their staff and encourage security measures to flow freely.

Please check with your carrier for correct weight allowance on these items.

 

Ensure your information is accurate and complete.

·    Be sure to have a valid passport and any required Visas.

·    It is now also recommended to carry photo ID for all flights (including UK/Eire domestic. Some airlines may refuse you without it)

·    Be sure to provide us with the name and current details of an emergency contact.   

·    If possible, when making your booking, provide your overseas contact details.  

 

Be prepared for security checkpoints

 

·    In the security queue remove coat/jacket, place coins, keys, phones, transparent bag and any lose items into hand luggage for ease.

·    Electronic items, such as laptops and mobile phones, may be subjected to additional screening.  Be ready to remove your laptop from its travel case so that both can be X-rayed separately.

·    Keep your ticket, boarding pass, and ID within easy reach.

·    Wear shoes that can be taken off and put back on relatively easily and be prepared for removal of belts & watches

·    Limit the amount of jewellery or other metal objects that you wear, and remove all metal objects prior to passing through the metal detectors in order to facilitate the screening process. 

·    Certain items should not be carried on an aircraft because of the danger they potentially represent. These include toy or replica guns and catapults in addition to many items commonly used at work or home, including; tradesmen's tools, household cutlery, steel nail files, knives with any length blade, razor blades (non-safety), scissors of any size, corkscrews with blades attached, darts, sporting bats/clubs/cues, knitting needles and hypodermic syringes (except with written evidence of medical need) and in some cases carrying lighters.

 

 

 

Travelling with confidence

 

Every year millions of passengers worldwide rely on airlines and other operators to help make their journeys smooth ones.

Many airlines have taken commitments to delivering safe and secure operations in airports and on board aircrafts including;

 

Screening of flying crew and ground staff.

Screening of passengers and cabin bags

Security controls for cargo, mail and catering.

Searches and guarding of aircraft.

Security audits and checks worldwide

X-ray screening of hold baggage

Additional passenger and hold baggage checks worldwide

Re-enforcing cockpit doors and locking whilst in flight

Bans on in flight deck visits

Bans on carriage of sharp implements

 

For you, preparation is an important factor in ensuring a successful journey.  To help you be prepared, we would like to offer some suggestions for your next trip:

 

 

Before your journey

 

 

·    Plan ahead. Pre-arrange transfers, hotel accommodation, and other elements of your journey.

·    Know your options.  Many travellers find it’s important to pay as much attention to options for returning home as options for getting there.  Familiarise yourself with schedules and if applicable, details of connecting flights. This way, should your plans change for any reason during your journey; you’ll already be somewhat familiar with all the alternatives.

·    Make copies of your passport, traveller’s cheques, credit cards, itinerary, and airline tickets. Carry one copy with you and leave one copy and your overseas contact details with the person you designate as your emergency contact.

·    Bring with you the address and phone number of the British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate for each country you plan to visit. 

·    Have local airline phone numbers to hand. 

·    Carry some cash as credit cards may not be accepted in all destinations

·    Check your mobile phones works in your intended country of visit and keep charged

·    It is recommended in some areas as a good idea to carry a small short wave radio to keep updated through the BBC World Service on up to date situations

·    Pack any regular medication in your hand luggage, and ensure you have an adequate supply for the duration of your trip.

·    You should also be knowledgeable about your destination, you may find the website of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office useful for additional travel information. Visit it at https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

 

 

Your well-being onboard

 

·    Try not to sit still for too long.  When convenient, get up and move about the cabin and stretch your arms and legs every so often.

·    Eat a light meal and drink plenty of water.  Drink alcohol, coffee and tea in moderation.

·    Help your body cope better when travelling to new time zones by taking every opportunity to sleep en route.  Every little nap will help.  And don’t forget to remove your contact lenses before you sleep.

 

 

All information on these pages is correct to the best of our knowledge but can be subject to change. Should you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us or check for more information on the relevant web pages.

It is YOUR responsibility to ensure you are prepared for your trip

 

WE WISH YOU A PLEASANT JOURNEY