The César Manrique Airport in Lanzarote is currently facing significant challenges, with long queues and overcrowding plaguing Terminal 1 (T1). These issues have been fuelled by a shortage of National Police officers and the existing procedural inefficiencies, leading to a chaotic experience for passengers.
According to Marcos Santiago, Secretary General of the Unified Police Syndicate, the core of the issue lies in the current processing methods. At present, both EU and non-EU travellers are funnelled into the same lines, causing delays and confusion. Santiago highlights that this outdated system needs an overhaul to meet current regulations and improve efficiency.
He also calls for improvements to the airport’s facilities to streamline the processing of passengers, reduce congestion in Terminal 1, and enhance overall airport operations. While entry controls to the island are reported to be stringent and well-managed, the exit process has substantial problems.
The most pressing issue is at the departure stage, where many non-EU travellers, including Brits, are leaving the island without passport stamps. This lack of proper documentation can lead to various complications and delays.
Santiago’s concerns underline the urgency for the airport to adapt and modernise its infrastructure to better handle the increasing volume of passengers and prevent future disruptions.
Addressing these concerns is crucial for improving the travel experience at César Manrique Airport. Enhanced facilities and updated procedures will help manage passenger flow more effectively and ensure smoother operations. As Lanzarote continues to attract tourists, these changes will be essential in maintaining the image of the island.
