airport

A woman named Maria Dinca has shared a video online urging travellers to follow proper airport security tray etiquette to avoid causing delays for yourself and other travellers

A woman named Maria Dinca has urged people to follow simple ‘airport etiquette’ when going through security as it can help prevent any unnecessary delays.

Whether you’re jetting off on a domestic trip or heading overseas, passing through airport security is an unavoidable part of air travel. You’ll need to place your bags, liquids, electronics, and any metal items through a security scanner to ensure you’re not carrying prohibited goods onto your flight. You’ll also pass through a separate scanner yourself to check for any restricted items. Typically, this process moves fairly swiftly. But during peak travel periods, queues can stretch on for what feels like an eternity – sometimes taking hours if you’re particularly unlucky – potentially causing you to miss your flight if you haven’t arrived with time to spare.

Now, one savvy traveller called Maria Dinca has taken to social media to highlight a common mistake that holidaymakers make at security checkpoints, warning it can cause unnecessary hold-ups for everyone.

In her video, Maria kicked off with: “PSA: airport security tray etiquette,” before demonstrating what she considers the ‘correct’ approach to handling those plastic trays at airport security checks.

In her video, Maria proceeded to demonstrate the correct way to manage your trays at airport security, filming herself navigating through security at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

The initial step involved collecting your tray from the conveyor belt whilst your belongings remained inside it.

She then progressed to the second stage, which involves positioning the tray on one of the available counters nearby, allowing you sufficient time to retrieve your items from the tray and reorganise your bag if necessary.

Once finished, you can advance to the third stage, which requires returning your tray to its proper location, enabling it to smoothly travel back to the beginning of the conveyor belt.

“Please don’t leave them sad and lonely like this,” she noted, displaying a queue of numerous empty trays occupying space on the belt, blocking other trays from passing through the security scanner.

She continued in the post’s caption: “Every time I travel I’m amazed how many people just leave them on the conveyor belt, which leads to more delays and more work for airport staff or other passengers to deal with.”

Whilst some viewers supported Maria’s perspective, others mentioned they had been instructed to simply disregard the trays. “Every airport I’ve been to tells you to get all your stuff out of the tray without taking it anywhere then slide it to the stack at the end,” one individual explained, further explaining in a separate comment that they hail from the US and that there are no tables available for unpacking their trays.

In response, Maria said: “Oh that’s interesting! My experience is based on Europe. I’m flying out of the US today though so will now keep an eye out for how it works here.”

UZBEKISTAN is where you can get bargain beers and stay in 5-star hotels for as little as £63 per night.

And it could get much easier for Brits to visit as it’s set to fully opening a new airport next year.

A new international airport is set to open in Uzbekistan in early 2027 at an estimated cost of $226 million (£168million).

The new airport which is already being constructed is in the Bukhara region in the southwest of the country.

On completion it will be able to handle over three million passengers each year and could grow to as many as eight million within the next three years.

The airport will have a 3.3km runway capable of accommodating all aircraft types and the terminal will have a capacity of up to 1,200 passengers per hour.

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Construction started in 2024 and the full opening is set for next year.

New flight routes are yet to be confirmed, but there’s a possibility there could be some from the UK.

There has been a surge in interest to visit the country as Uzbekistan has seen tourist numbers increase from just over two million in 2017 to more than 10 million in 2025.

There are few direct routes from the UK to Uzbekistan – but one was added just last month.

In December 2025, Qanot Sharq announced it would launch two direct flights per week between London Gatwick and Tashkent.

Flights between London and Uzbekistan’s capital take seven hours.

Uzbekistan is one of Asia’s cheapest holiday destinations. According to
Numbeo, the price of a local beer is 17,500 UZS (£1.08)

The average price of a cappuccino is 23,030 UZS (£1.42).

When it comes to hotels, you can get a budget stay for as little as £9 per night.

If you’re looking for luxury, 5-star hotels don’t break the bank either, the Hilton Samarkand Regency can cost as little as £63 per night.

Travellers who have been to Uzbekistan have recognised it as being affordable.

Race Across the World winner Alfie Watts told Sun Travel: “Uzbekistan has great value for money.

“When I went, we were on the tourist trail which made things a bit more expensive. But we got a half an hour taxi which cost 20,000 UZS which is is £1.24.”

As for what to do in Uzbekistan, the country has lots of Silk Road cities – which are stops on historical trade routes.

Some of the most-visited of these are Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.

There’s plenty of beautiful architecture like Registan Square and Bibi-Khanym Mosque in Samarkand.

The country has incredible mountain scenery with ranges like Uzbekistan the Western Tian Shan in the northeast and the Gissar-Alay in the south.

When it comes to food, you can pick up speciality dishes like Plov (Pilaf) which is a one-pot rice dish which generally contains rice, meat, and carrots.

You can also try steamed dumplings called Manti, savory pastries Samsa, and spicy noodle stew called Lagman.

The best times to visit Uzbekistan are spring and autumn when the temperatures are mild.

For more on travelling to lesser-visited countries, hear from one man who left the UK to travel on £35 a day.

Another man who has visited every country on Earth named Uzbekistan as one of the most underrated destinations.

This town offers Victorian charm with colourful cottages, stunning coastal walks including the Blackhead Path, and highly-rated dining

Venture slightly away from the usual tourist routes and you’ll discover this charming town, perfect for a peaceful coastal retreat, boasting picturesque strolls and breathtaking vistas.

Whitehead presents all the appeal of a Victorian seaside resort, featuring period architecture and meandering pathways that overlook the tranquil azure waters. Like any worthwhile destination, it boasts an array of delightful bakeries, cafés and public houses, all providing refreshments and a welcome break after a day spent discovering the coastline.

However, the Lighthouse Bistro and Bakehouse truly stands apart from the rest, earning the top spot for dining on TripAdvisor in the locality. Patrons keep returning for the delicious seafood chowder, fresh bakes and the lovely panoramas whilst enjoying a drink overlooking the ocean during summer months.

One delighted visitor said: “What a great find! This bakery/restaurant is excellent. We each had a delicious bowl of soup accompanied by freshly baked bread. Perfect lunch after our Blackhead Beach walk.”

Outdoor enthusiasts frequently find themselves drawn to explore this region, renowned for its trails, including the legendary Gobbins Cliff Path. Rich in heritage, this route offers more than simply a stroll but rather a voyage through the ages, where you’ll encounter all the natural forces and feel more connected to the ocean than ever.

You can peer down into the thundering waters of the North Passage whilst standing on a metal bridge suspended between clifftops, providing unparalleled panoramas. A passionate adventurer documented their visit on TripAdvisor, saying: “The views are spectacular, and the history is so interesting. Keep your eyes open in the water – we saw several seals in the water. “

The location is temporarily shut following recent rockfall, though it’s expected to welcome visitors back shortly. However, there are numerous other routes to appreciate the stunning Northern Irish coast, such as the Blackhead Path.

Renowned for its charming white lighthouse backdrop, this route attracts walkers of all kinds, being a manageable trail suitable for various fitness levels. One hiker said: “You’ll enjoy stunning views across Belfast Lough of North Down, Scotland and nearby islands. You can walk up to the lighthouse in a circular route – through the caves and up the back steps – or take a left up across the Golden Steps. Incredible views and all free!”.

Railway enthusiasts or those seeking educational experiences should definitely visit Whitehead Railway Museum. Here, guests can climb aboard a locomotive featuring a 140 year old engine and enter a genuine 1950s carriage, all maintained by the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland’s collection.

Punters can wander through the venue independently or absorb fascinating insights from the knowledgeable staff stationed at the museum. When the weather’s playing up, it’s a perfect spot for some indoor entertainment. One visitor confessed they “nearly didn’t call in” but were “so glad” they did, even expressing a wish to have allocated more time.

ONE of Europe’s busiest airports has cancelled hundreds more flights as chaos enters its sixth day.

A major snow warning has resulted in the cancellations at Amsterdam‘s Schiphol Airport since the weekend.

According to local media, another 718 flights have been cancelled today with fears of another 10cm of snow across the country.

The airport stated: “On Wednesday, due to persistent winter weather and heavy winds, only limited air traffic is possible to and from Schiphol.

“More cancellations are expected. This will be mostly European flights.”

The majority of flights from the UK have been cancelled to Schiphol Airport today, affecting as many as 60 inbound and outbound flights.

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This affects routes from London airports, as well as Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The few that are still in operation are expected to be severely delayed.

Passengers have been left stranded at the airport for days, due to the ongoing cancellations.

On Monday, the airport cancelled 450 flights, affecting arrivals and departures.

And yesterday, another 455 flights were cancelled as well.

As many as a thousand passengers were thought to have slept at the airport overnight, due to visa issues preventing many from leaving.

One woman said has been left stuck at the airport since Sunday.

She explained: “Yesterday morning, we were sent away again. We ended up coming back.

“And we’ve been waiting here ever since. We had to sleep here, too.”

Most trains to and from the airport have been cancelled.

And Eurostar trains have also been affected, with two of the five planned routes from London to Amsterdam cancelled today.

Others are offering a limited service with passengers not able to join at some stops.

Desperate travellers have been forced to find alternative routes home.

One said on social media: “We got a ferry from Rotterdam to Hull last night.”

Another said: “I got a taxi to Brussels for €500 and getting on a flight to London.”

A third added: “Decided to book Flixbus from Amsterdam to London.”

Sadly, passengers won’t be able to claim compensation for any losses due to the weather being seen as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’.

Airlines must offer either a full refund or book you on the next available flight.

If stuck overnight, hotels and food vouchers must also be offered.

Flights at Liverpool Airport were also axed this week after the airport was forced to close.

A NEW route to a city that straddles both Europe and Asia is coming to a major UK airport.

From March 18, Turkish Airlines will be launching a new route between London Stansted Airport and Istanbul.

It marks the first flights for the carrier from the UK airport.

There will be up to 15 flights a week to the Turkish capital.

Istanbul is just four hours from the UK and was named the world’s best airport by the World’s Top 10 International Airports survey earlier this year.

The city features cobbled streets and the famous Blue Mosque, which was created in 1609.

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It is free to enter and is known for its blue tiles and six minarets.

If you like shopping head to the Grand Bazaar, which is one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.

Inside visitors will find locally crafted carpets, lanterns and even sweets.

One recent visitor said: “The Grand Bazaar is huge, colorful, and full of energy.

“Walking through the endless lanes feels like stepping back in time, with shops selling carpets, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs everywhere.

“The mix of history and daily life makes the bazaar unforgettable.”

Hotels in Istanbul can cost as little as £20 per night.

Or you could stay at the more premium DoubleTree by Hilton for £72 a night.

Back in July, Gareth Powell, managing director at London Stansted, said: “This is a major milestone for the airport and a strong vote of confidence in both our operation and the vibrant, fast-growing region we serve.

“Istanbul is a fantastic destination in its own right, but this new service also opens the door to Turkish Airlines’ extensive global network, connecting London Stansted to over 353 destinations across Asia, Africa, Australia and beyond.”

Mehmet Gurulkan, Turkish Airlines’ general manager for London, said: “This new service increases our total weekly UK–Istanbul frequencies, providing passengers even more choice and greater connectivity to our global network.

“By operating from Stansted, we are happy to support the airport’s continued growth and contribute to job creation and economic development in the region.”

In addition to the new Stansted-Istanbul route, a number of other routes will be launching at Stansted this year.

Ryanair will be adding flights to Malmo in Sweden from April 1, which will operate twice a week.

The airline will also be adding more flights to Glasgow from March 29.

Budget airline easyJet will start flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle on March 5.

And then AJet will launch flights to Bodrum, Turkey, from June 26.

Jet2.com will also be expanding its summer programme, with new routes to Jerez, Spain from May 1, Samos in Greece from May 7 and La Palma in the Canary Islands from October 26.

Finally, TUI will be introducing flights to Kos from May 7 and BA CityFlyer will launch flights to Olbia, Sardinia, from May 23.

Ciaran Brannigan, commercial director at London Stansted, said: “We’re delighted to welcome new airlines and routes during 2026 that give our passengers even greater choice, value and convenience.

“London Stansted continues to grow as a key gateway for travel across Europe and beyond, and these additions underline our commitment to offering more destinations and better connectivity for leisure and business travellers alike.”

In other flight news, a major airline with bunk beds onboard reveals plans to relaunch UK flights for the first time in five years.

Plus, easyJet’s new UK flights to go to sunny island with three of the world’s best nightclubs.

Jetting off on a winter getaway is a desire many people have and travellers have been urged to give specific packing methods a try to help them potentially save hundreds of pounds

People jetting off abroad this January have been urged to be careful when it comes to packing, or risk having to pay a costly baggage charge at the airport. Frigid temperatures, icy weather, and persistent snowfall in some parts of the country have got many people fantasising about a winter getaway.

Those lucky enough to be going on holiday this winter have to be careful when it comes to their clothing, though – especially items used to ward off the January chill. According to a spokesperson from Ski Vertigo, bulky winter items are one of the biggest causes of unexpected baggage fees during January travel.

They say this is because travellers often pack heavy coats and footwear without realising how quickly weight limits are exceeded. Airlines charge for bags that go over set size and weight limits – and fees can add up fast.

Baggage charges vary depending on the airline, flight route and more. Typically, there’ll be higher fees for checked bags, with overweight bags typically incurring charges of between £12 and £25, or sometimes more, per extra kilogram beyond the designated allowance.

It’s best to always check your specific airline’s policy before flying to avoid any unwanted surprises at the airport.

A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo said: “Excess baggage charges can reach well over £100 per flight, with some airlines charging per kilo once limits are passed. For families or return journeys, costs can quickly reach £200 or more.”

In a bid to avoid this, experts recommend wearing the bulkiest items during your outbound journey. Thick or long coats, chunky jumpers and heavy boots take up a lot of space in suitcases and can quickly weigh it down. Ski Vertigo advises wearing these items through the airport in order to free up room in your luggage and avoid weight issues at check-in.

Once you’re through security, you’ll be able to remove those outer layers to make the journey more manageable while still taking advantage of the extra space in your bag. The pros also recommend stuffing accessories like gloves, socks, and scarves inside packed shoes, as empty boots and trainers can take up excessive space and, when empty, that space is often wasted.

This can be useful on winter trips, where these items are necessary, yet may be forgotten until the last minute. Adding them to shoes in checked bags ensures they’re readily available – and they can provide an added layer of protection for your shoes.

Ski Vertigo said limiting coats to one versatile option is also “key”. Many people pack multiple coats “just in case”, only to wear one throughout the trip. A single insulated, waterproof coat works for airports, city breaks, and winter destinations, reducing both bulk and weight.

The spokesperson added that January travellers often underestimate how strict baggage checks can be. Despite winter travel requiring heavier clothing, airline limits remain the same all year round. Many passengers are stuck having to pay excess fees at the airport after packing bulky items like ski jackets and boots into their bags.

One person took to Reddit and asked: “So let’s assume you are only allowed 23 kg per suitcase, but you have more. How much tolerance leeway do you have and what does it depend on? What are your experiences with excess baggage and goodwill/room for manoeuvre?”

In response, one person simply said: “It depends on the agent so my advice is… I wouldn’t risk it but you can if you want to invite hassle and annoy people around you.”

Another added: “Most airports I have been to they will charge you for being over the limit at all. It’s a limit for a reason. Plan on being slightly under the limit unless you want to plan to argue with the staff. Seems rude though.”

THE price for passenger drop-offs at London’s second busiest airport has jumped 40 percent.

That’s a £3 increase from previous charge of £7 and will apply to all drivers entering the drop off zone, excluding Blue Badge holders.

From today London Gatwick will have the highest drop-off fees in the country thanks to the new £10 charge.

The price has steadily increased over the years since it was first introduced in 2021 and was only £5.

It jumped to £6 in 2024 before being increased to £7 just a year later in May 2025.

“Poor old passengers and drivers are getting another blow to the pocket,” complained travel writer Andy Mossack in an interview with BBC Radio Surrey.

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“It is disgraceful.”

London Gatwick, which is the busiest single runway airport in Europe, said it was “not a decision they took lightly”.

However, it cited reasons such as the “doubling of business rates” as one of the reasons for the increase in cost.

A spokesperson for Gatwick suggested passengers could use the free shuttle bus if they are dropped of in the long stay car park.

They added: “We also have excellent public transport connectivity at the airport, with passengers able to connect directly with more than 120 train stations.

“Many local bus routes serve the airport 24  hours a day, seven days a week.”

Drop off fees have also increased at London Heathrow with its drop off fee increasing from £6 to £7 on January 1.

It is also introducing a strict 10-minute drop off time, with drivers charged £80 if they go over.

And London City, the last of the London airports to allow free drop offs, will be introducing a new charge in 2026 as well.

MULTIPLE flights from a major UK airport have been cancelled after a blanket of snow covered the tarmac.

Holidaymakers have been left devastated after the runway at Liverpool John Lennon Airport was closed off this morning.

Airport staff are currently trying to clear the area of snow and ice.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the airport said flights are subject to delay and there have been some cancellations due to the “wintry weather conditions”.

They added: “If you are traveling today please check with your airline for the latest information.”

The airport added that a further update would be provided at 10am.

WORK on the third runway of what is set to become the world’s biggest airport has started.

The major airport is set to open in 2030, and it will eventually welcome as many as 185million passengers.

King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, has begun the latest works, with the additional runway set to be 4,200 metres long.

It will allow the airport to increase its capacity from around 65 aircraft movements per hour to 85.

Marco Mejia, Acting Chief Executive Officer of King Salman International Airport said: “Launching construction of the third runway marks a pivotal step in delivering the KSIA Master Plan.

“And reflects our commitment to developing world-class infrastructure capable of supporting future growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and expanding long-haul connectivity without constraints.”

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It won’t stop there though, in fact there are six planned runways for the King Salman International Airport.

Each will be parallel to one another, and built around the existing King Khalid International Airport.

When finished, the airport will be the same size as Manhattan in New York.

The ‘mega airport’ is set to become the largest in the world, including the current one which is also in Saudi Arabia; the King Fahd International Airport.

At 57 square kilometres, the airport will be initially be able to handle up to 100 million passengers each year.

It will also be able to handle more than two million tonnes of cargo by 2030.

The airport was announced back in 2022 and is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman‘s Saudi Vision 2030.

This is set to make Riyadh into a major hub for transport, trade and tourism.

It will eventually accommodate up to 120million passengers each year, which is then expected to rise to 185million by 2050.

The airport has been designed by Foster + Partners and will have plenty of light and airy spaces, seating for travellers and 4.6sqm of shops.

A lot of features in the airport are set to be high tech, such as climate-controlled lighted.

The airport will also feature a large mosque, landscaped gardens and a Royal Terminal for use of the Saudi royal family, government officials, and VIPs.

This major UK airport has revealed its new £1.3billion upgrade plans…

London Heathrow will undergo a series of developments next year, starting with Terminal 2 and 4.

It will improve the passenger experience by using AI-technology and has plans to make flights more punctual along with better baggage facilities.

This morning, Heathrow Airport revealed it will start upgrading Terminal 4 next year costing £1.3billion.

The first step will be building a new multi-storey car park and upgrading its check-in area.

The works will be phased to ensure that there’s no disruption to the running of Terminal 4 – and these are expected to be completed in 2031.

Over in Terminal 2, Heathrow has announced that work will also begin on a new baggage system that will be able to handle 31,000 bags each day.

In order to speed up flights and improve punctuality, it will install AI-powered turnaround tech.

This will involve a network of cameras being installed across Heathrow.

Using AI to analyse data, the airport will speed up turnaround times between flights, which will make journeys more punctual.

Coverage is expected to be across all terminals by the end of 2026.

For more on airports, this one in the UK is set to axe free drop off with new fee starting in the New Year.

Plus, this airport was named the best in the UK – it beats London Heathrow and City by miles.

LONDON City Airport will introduce drop-off fees for the very first time.

In just a matter of days, the airport will charge those dropping off passengers at its airport.

London City Airport will introduce a drop-off charge of £8 from January 6, 2026.

On its website, the airport said: “The charge will be £8.00 for 0-5 minutes, then £1 per minute for any additional minutes, with a maximum stay of 10 minutes.”

Blue Badge holders are exempt, as are licensed black cab drivers.

London City is the last of the London airports to allow free drop-offs.

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The airport explained: “The charge will help London City meet its wider sustainability goals by reducing the number of vehicles travelling to and from the airport, supporting efforts to lower congestion, reduce emissions and improve air quality in the surrounding area.”

The hope is that the fee will encourage travellers to use public transport rather than arrive by car.

Currently, around 10 per cent of passengers arrive by car, with another 14 per cent using taxis.

Planes from London City Airport fly to over 30 destinations across Europe including Amsterdam, Spain and Greece.

London City is the most recent airport to announce its new drop-off charges, but other major airports are doing the same in 2026.

As of January 1, 2026, London Heathrow has increased its drop-off fee from £6 to £7.

The last drop off increase at London Heathrow was in December 2024, from £5 to £6.

It is also introducing a strict 10-minute drop-off time, with drivers charged £80 if they go over the allocated time slot.

In just a matter of days, London Gatwick is also upping its drop-off fee.

From January 6, 2026, London Gatwick Airport will charge passengers being dropped off the new fee of £10.

Currently charging £7, the £3 increase (a 40 per cent jump) will apply to all drivers using the drop-off zone, excluding Blue Badge holders.

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My local airport was named the best in the UK – it beats London Heathrow and City by miles.

A £8 drop-off fee is being introduced at a UK airport that is the last remaining to implement the charge, with additional fees for stays of more than five minutes

The last remaining UK airport that doesn’t charge for a drop-off is set to introduce an £8 fee.

From Tuesday, 6 January 2026, travellers dropped off at London City Airport by car will be charged £8 for a stay of up to 5 minutes. Stays exceeding five minutes will incur a charge of £1 per minute, up to a maximum stay of 10 minutes.

The change aims to encourage more people to utilise public transport when travelling to the airport. Blue badge holders are exempt from this charge. London City Airport has proposed that the drop-off fee be incorporated into taxi meters, ensuring drivers aren’t burdened with the fare, which will be included in Transport for London’s (TfL) annual public consultation on fares.

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The initiative aims to promote the use of public transport among passengers, two-thirds of whom already opt for this mode of transport, according to London City Airport. The Docklands Light Railway is the main public transport route to the London airport, while the Elizabeth line is another alternative route near the terminal.

Alternatively, passengers can be dropped off directly in front of the terminal building on the forecourt. The drop-off charge will be a significant change for London City Airport, as it joins major UK airports in implementing the fee.

Recently, Heathrow’s Terminal Drop-Off Charge has risen from £6 to £7 per visit. Those keen to avoid the fee can be dropped off in the long-stay car park and then take a free shuttle bus.

Gatwick, Luton and Stansted also impose a minimum charge of £7 to use the designated drop-off zones, with the duration varying.

While it’s convenient to be dropped off close to the check-in desk, the ‘kiss and fly’ tax is an additional expense many would rather swerve. Thankfully, nearly all UK airports have alternative areas where you can be dropped off for free.

One of the most convenient options is to be dropped off at one of the airport’s long-stay car parks, many of which offer a free 10-minute stay. Typically, you can walk to the terminal from these car parks, or alternatively, hop on one of the free shuttle buses.

Even if other car parks are a bit further from the terminals, such as short or mid-stay, you can still utilise the complimentary shuttle service, even without parking your vehicle there. Another clever way to avoid extra charges is by getting dropped off at a nearby hotel, as many are conveniently situated near major airports, offering a quick walk to the terminal

You might even manage to get dropped off at a nearby train station or a safe spot just before entering the airport grounds. Some airports also offer a designated free drop-off zone, or a ‘free waiting area’, which can range from 15 minutes up to a generous hour.

Since each UK airport has different zones, charges, and time limits for free drop-offs, it’s essential to check directly on the airport’s website. Naturally, you can use the same strategy when returning to the UK, as long as the person picking you up knows your exact location.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

STC separatists accuse Saudi Arabia of requiring flights to UAE to land in Jeddah; Saudi source rejects claim.

Flights from Aden international airport in Yemen were halted on Thursday amid continuing tensions between the Southern Transitional Council (STC) separatist group and the Saudi Arabia-backed internationally recognised government in Yemen.

Reuters news agency reported that all flights were suspended at the airport on Thursday, although further details of flight operations and possible resumptions remained unclear.

The STC has formally been a part of the Saudi-led coalition that, since 2015, has been fighting the Houthi takeover of large parts of Yemen. But the STC also seeks to carve out a separate nation in southern Yemen, and in December, expanded its military operations in Hadramout and al-Mahra provinces that border Saudi Arabia, setting off a rapid escalation in tensions.

Saudi Arabia has accused the United Arab Emirates – also a part of the anti-Houthi coalition – of arming the STC and of encouraging the separatist group to expand into Hadramout and al-Mahra, which Riyadh has said threatens its national security. The UAE has denied those allegations, insisting that it supports Saudi Arabia’s security.

However, while the UAE has since agreed to demands from Yemen’s Riyadh-backed Presidential Leadership Council and Saudi Arabia to withdraw its troops from Yemen, the STC has refused to pull back from Hadramout and al-Mahra.

On Thursday, the STC-aligned Transport Ministry within the internationally recognised government claimed that the stoppage at the airport was a result of Saudi Arabia imposing new requirements mandating that flights to and from Aden airport undergo inspection in Jeddah.

The ministry said it was “shocked” by the move, adding that Saudi authorities later clarified the restriction only applied to flights operating between Aden and the United Arab Emirates.

A Saudi source denied to the Reuters news agency that it was involved in restricting flights, saying Yemen’s internationally recognised government, led by the Presidential Leadership Council, was behind the requirement for UAE-bound flights.

Yemeni presidential adviser, Thabet al-Ahmadi, confirmed to Al Jazeera that it had imposed a requirement that applied to one flight route departing from Aden airport. He said the move was meant to prevent STC money smuggling.

Al-Ahmadi said the government did not support a complete halt to flights, adding it wanted to ensure air traffic continued unimpeded.

Earlier this week, the UAE announced it was voluntarily withdrawing its remaining “counterterrorism” forces from Yemen. That came after Riyadh struck what it claimed to be a UAE-linked weapons shipment in the southern port city of Mukalla.

On Wednesday, Rashad al-Alimi, the head of the internationally recognised government in Yemen, warned that any moves by the STC to further entrench their position in the provinces would have severe consequences.

The STC has, however, remained defiant, saying it would remain in the provinces.

However, STC spokesperson Mohammed al-Naqeeb said the group was coordinating its movements with the Homeland Shield forces, which had been the main security force in the provinces prior to the STC offensive. The Homeland Shield is affiliated with the Yemeni government and the Saudi-led coalition.

Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war since Houthi forces took control of the capital Sanaa in 2014. The group continues to control large swaths of the country’s northwest, with the STC and government contesting the southern and eastern flanks.

Dec. 31 (UPI) — A late-morning threat on Wednesday caused a temporary lockdown at Kansas City International Airport in Missouri that was lifted a little over an hour later.

Kansas City officials said the FBI and airport police were notified of a threat in a particular area within the airport, which was evacuated and searched, KCTV reported.

“Law Enforcement was able to determine no credible threat to the airport or those inside the terminal at this time. Once that determination was made, KCAD staff worked to resume normal operations and minimize disruptions,” city officials said in a statement.

Passengers were evacuated from the area of concern at 11 a.m. CST due to a “potential threat” in an unsecured area of the airport, according to WDAF TV.

They were let back in shortly before noon, and the airport was fully reopened by 12:30 p.m.

The nature of the threat was not announced, and the FBI is continuing to investigate the matter.

Despite the lockdown, the Federal Aviation Administration did not report any flight disruptions at the airport.

A separate threat also was investigated at the West Virginia International Yeager Airport in Charleston on Wednesday morning, WOWK reported.

The threat was “non-credible,” and the affected terminal was not evacuated, but a local bomb squad searched the area to ensure it was safe, local officials said.

The user, who posts on the video sharing platform under the username Khoslaa, admitted she was worried about getting caught, and eventually altered her plan after a suprising complaint

Booking a holiday can be exciting. You wait months for the day to arrive when you have to travel to the airport and something about that whole experience is exhilarating. Now one woman who was travelling via Heathrow airport couldn’t believe what happened when she attempted to take 2 litres of liquids onto the plane.

Now posting on TikTok, the traveller tried her luck despite for years the limit being just one twentieth of that amount. That’s because at several UK airports the rule has actually been removed, meaning passengers can now take water bottles, toiletries and other liquids on board without worrying about having them confiscated.

The user, who posts on the video sharing platform under the username Khoslaa, admitted she was worried about the test, noticing there was a heightened security presence that day, as well as more travellers than she was used to.

Incredibly, the influencer failed at the first hurdle, deciding to ditch her 2L bottle and instead try the experiment with a 125ml bottle of hairspray, claiming she was finding the extra volume “too heavy”.

Despite not seeing any signs saying the rule had been changed, Khoslaa bravely decided to plough on though she felt “nervous”, even going as far as ignoring a ‘no camera’ sign in order to record her experiment.

At the moment of truth, Kholslaa watched on as her bag rolled through the X-ray scanners, in footage that can only be described as totally gripping.

And the result? Success! both Kholslaa and her hairspray made it through unscathed, although whether this was due to the new rule being followed, or British Transport Police taking their eye off the ball, it’s hard to know.

The reactions to the video were mixed, with many confused as to how she managed to slip through airport security despite apparently breaking the rules. One questioned: “Flying in terminal 4 still 100ml?” While another pointed out that although Heathrow’s X-Ray machines don’t require you to take the liquid out of your bag, they still need to be under 100ml.

A third user joked that returning to the UK with the potential contraband may be tricky, writing “Good luck coming back with it tho.”

The Heathrow 100ml liquid rule requires all liquids, gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols in hand luggage to be in containers of 100ml (3.4oz) or less, fitting into one clear, resealable plastic bag (approx. 20cm x 20cm) for security screening.

While some airports have upgraded scanners allowing larger quantities to stay in bags, Heathrow (at time of writing) still enforces the traditional 100ml rule for most passengers, requiring the bag to be removed from hand luggage for X-ray.

As it stands, flights from Birmingham and Edinburgh are the only ones upon which passengers can bring the increased amount.

NEW strict customs laws have gone into effect, allowing government officials to request tourists’ DNA in some cases.

The new biometric data collection started on December 26, just ahead of the new year. 

The new rule targets non-citizens entering or leaving the US, according to government documents seen by Reuters. 

Travelers will now be subjected to facial recognition photos at the airport to help match them against existing records.

Those facial recognition pictures will be stored for up to 75 years, according to the documents. 

Under the new law, Department of Homeland Security officials may request additional biometric information, including fingerprints or DNA, from non-citizens.

The updated security measures are meant to “deter the filing of frivolous claims and provide operational consistency,” according to the government.

The new biometric rules would also remove any age restrictions on facial recognition, meaning that any foreigner is now subject to the biometric measures.

Up until now, there were restrictions on who could be scanned using facial recognition.

Travelers under 14 years old and those over 79 years old were exempt from those requirements.

Biometric data has been collected from foreign visitors for years, but now the government is pushing to collect more information to tighten border security.

The new rules expand what officials are legally allowed to ask for. 

Select visitors planning to stay in the US for more than 29 days are now required to pay a $30 fee.

Those who refuse to pay the fee and be fingerprinted could be hit with a $5,000 fine.

The new rules come one day before one of the busiest travel days of the year, according to United Airlines. 

The popular airline said that December 27 is expected to be a record-breaking day in the winter travel season.

Travelers should brace for longer security lines and make sure everything they have complies with TSA rules and restrictions. 

“You will probably be waiting an extra-long time in the security line this Christmas,” Air passenger rights expert Ivaylo Danailov, CEO of SkyRefund, warned.

“There are going to be many more people than normal carrying much more stuff than usual for the Christmas season, both of which result in longer security waits.”

Most importantly, Danailov urged travelers to “check the TSA’s website” before they fly.

“Unfortunately for Christmas travellers, this scrutiny also extends to wrapped goods,” he said.

“It doesn’t matter what you have wrapped, or how nicely, the TSA will unwrap anything to get a good look at it and are not always gentle in the process.”

A MAJOR US airport is set to unveil its $2.2 billion renovation in 2026 after work kicked off in 2019.

The huge regional travel hub will complete the second and last phase of the project in a matter of months, offering a range of perks to travelers including faster security and a new terminal building.

Portland International Airport started work on the multi-billion-dollar project in 2019, with construction starting in 2020.

Phase one, which was completed in August last year, saw the airport boast a new state-of-the-art terminal building and improved security checkpoints.

The new building has top-of-the-range security checkpoints which no longer require passengers to remove items from baggage thanks to updated scanner technology.

Not only does this improve safety, it cuts long wait times at the checkpoints.

There are also new check-in areas, immersive video walls, stadium seating, and nature-inspired interiors that are designed to give travelers the feeling of having a “woodland stroll”, creating a calming space.

In 2026, officials plan to unveil the completed renovation with more shops, lounges, and improved connections between the plane and the concourses.

“Travelers have a lot to look forward to when [it’s] done,” Allison Ferre, spokesperson for the Port of Portland said of the current construction works that account for about 30% of the overhaul project.

“It’s going to be designed and outfitted to match the rest of the new main terminal.

“The bypasses are going to be gone. So they’re going to have new direct routes straight from the concourses to baggage claim. No more construction detours once you land,” she said of the benefits once work is complete.

Travelers will see more seating, shops, restaurants, newsstands, and bathroom facilities when the final result is unveiled next year.

By 2045, the airport expects to be catering for about 35 million passengers per year.

And it’s not the only US travel hub that has undergone a major update.

Last month, Pittsburgh International opened its brand new terminal just in time for Thanksgiving, following $1.7 billion worth of renovations.

Meanwhile, one of the country’s busiest airports has started work on its $6 billion project which includes a brand new vertical take off facility.

The project aims to see the airport more readily meet demand as it breaks passenger records year on year by focusing on customer experience, community, infrastructure, and people.

Emma Groves, 35, from Belfast, was refused entry to Switzerland and detained at Zurich airport after making an easy mistake when packing

A woman was turned away from her holiday destination and held in custody after making one crucial error while travelling. Emma Groves, 35, from Belfast, made her way to Dublin Airport for a four-night break in Zurich, Switzerland on December 1 this year.

The pair dropped off their luggage and completed check-in before passing through security without any problems. Emma had reserved the Aer Lingus flight approximately three weeks earlier after spotting a hotel she fancied visiting on TikTok.

However, it wasn’t until the duo reached border control in Zurich that they discovered Emma had made a grave blunder which left her devastated. Following the loss of her passport several weeks beforehand, Emma had requested a replacement document, which arrived at her home.

Yet after discovering her original passport, she failed to destroy it and stored it in a drawer alongside her moisturisers and fake tan products.

Emma explained: “I had grabbed it [passport] the night before and give my passport to my boyfriend, he minds them because I do lose everything. Only the night before I thought ‘my goodness am I going to be able to travel, the gold has completely faded off’ this which is strange for it being a new passport. It was in a drawer with all my moisturisers and fake tans. So I did think it’s probably just rubbed off.”

Upon reaching the Swiss border, Emma discovered her passport had been flagged as cancelled. She recalled: “He just said ‘do you have another one’ and then it kind of clicked. The border police came and got me and my boyfriend.

“We went into this room and said we realised what had happened. I said I’ve got a new one but I’ve grabbed the old one so he said because it had been cancelled it was an invalid document.”

Emma was informed she would need to be flown back to Dublin before she could re-enter the country using her valid passport. Her boyfriend chose to remain in the country and await Emma’s return.

Emma found herself placed in a “weird” airport hotel, which she likened to a “mini prison”, containing roughly 20 beds separated by curtains.

She explained: “They put me in an airport hotel and I was in there for about three or four hours, but it was just like a room with a lot of beds in it separated by curtains. I just sat and watched Stranger Things get me through.

“It was scary enough in the hotel because there were a lot of people in there, and there kind of wasn’t really any security or even a locked door. It was a weird room.

“[In Dublin] we used a machine to drop off the luggage, but then we did have to go over to a desk to leave them, and she checked the passport and stuff. The passports were scanned so you’d think they would pick up if it was cancelled.

“Border security in Switzerland said I shouldn’t have been able to get that far. It wasn’t until like 6pm that they told me I’d be getting on the flight at 8pm.”

It’s understood that Aer Lingus verifies that a presented passport corresponds to the passenger’s identity and remains valid. In instances where a passport has been cancelled but remains in date, the discrepancy would be spotted upon entry to another country.

Emma was then accompanied around the airport by a chaperone before being boarded onto the aircraft first, as her passport had been seized. She was given a set of documents which stated she was denied entry and had her passport confiscated.

Upon her return to Dublin, her mother met her with her replacement passport, allowing her to purchase fresh flights to Zurich, which she described as an “expense she didn’t need”.

Emma explained: “When I flew over, I actually initially wasn’t going to bring the forms back, but my mum was like ‘just take them’, so I flew out fine but when I got to the Swiss border again the border control lady was like ‘oh this doesn’t make sense it says you’ve already been here but you haven’t left’.’I give her the forms and she was like ‘oh okay that kind of explains it’ and I got through.”

Emma was informed by border officials that she would face no future travel difficulties due to it being an honest mistake. A representative from Aer Lingus stated: “Passengers travelling with Aer Lingus are responsible for ensuring they have all relevant travel documentation and compliance with relevant laws and regulations of the countries they are flying to, from, or transiting through. Passports used for travel must be valid and in date. If a travel document is not valid for travel, passengers may be refused entry when they reach their planned destination, as was the case in this instance.”

OFFICIALS have called for the new EES system to be urgently reviewed with some passengers facing three-hour queues at passport control.

The new Entry/Exit system is set to be up and running by April 10, 2026 for non-EU citizens entering the Schengen area – but there has been a concerns due to huge delays at the border.

The new EES system started rolling out from October 12, 2025, in order to replace manual passport stamping with digital checks for non-EU travelers.

It was designed to eventually reduce airport wait times by automating border checks with biometrics.

But reports have recorded waiting times of up to three hours – and many travellers have taken to social media too.

On December 18, one person said about Lanzarote on X: “Landed at 14.30, over 2 hours later still at airport. This new EEs just is working. Hundreds of people in queue then they stamp passports. Ridiculous”.

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On the same day, The Portugal Post reported three-hour queues in the arrivals hall at Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport due to a glitch with the EES system.

It even added that “officials are now weighing whether to switch the system off altogether during Christmas”.

Earlier in the month, one traveller said: “The new EU Entry/Exit System is off to a great start at Prague Airport, with a 3+ hour queue wrapped around the entire terminal right now.”

The Airports Council International (ACI) in Brussels is calling for an urgent review of the entry-exit system (EES).

ACI has said that the capturing of biometric data from third-country nationals entering the Schengen area has resulted in border control processing times at airports increasing by up to 70 per cent.

It added that this has impacted the passenger experience especially in airports across France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Portugal and Spain.

The ACI has said that multiple factors have resulted in delays which include regular EES outages.

It reported persistent EES configuration problems, “including the partial deployment or unavailability of self‑service kiosks used by travelers for registration and biometric data capture”.

There is continued unavailability of Automated Border Control (ABC) gates for EES processing at many airports, and the unavailability of an effective pre-registration app.

Another factor is an insufficient amount of border guards at airports.

Olivier Jankovec, Director General of ACI EUROPE warned: “Significant discomfort is already being inflicted upon travelers, and airport operations impacted with the current threshold for registering third country nationals set at only 10 per cent.”

Currently, one in 10 travellers has to go through the digital registration.

But by January 9, 2026, the percentage is due to be raised to 35 per cent.

Mr Jankovec has warned that unless the issues are resolved this “will inevitably result in much more severe congestion and systemic disruption for airports and airlines. This will possibly involve serious safety hazards”.

He added: “We fully understand and support the importance of the EES and remain fully committed to its implementation.

“But the EES cannot be about mayhem for travelers and chaos at our airports. If the current operational issues cannot be addressed and the system stabilised by early January, we will need swift action from the European Commission and Schengen Member States to allow additional flexibility in its roll‑out.”

For more on EES checks, here’s everything you need to know about them from a travel expert.

Plus, here’s all the worst travel chaos predicted for the UK over the Christmas period.

LONDON Heathrow will undergo a series of developments next year starting with Terminal 2 and 4.

It will improve the passenger experience by using AI-technology and has plans to make flights more punctual along with better baggage facilities.

This morning, Heathrow Airport revealed it will start upgrading Terminal 4 next year costing £1.3billion.

The first step will be building a new multi-storey car park and upgrading its check-in area.

The works will be phased to ensure that there’s no disruption to the running of Terminal 4 – and these are expected to be completed in 2031.

Over in Terminal 2, Heathrow has announced that work will also begin on a new baggage system that will be able to handle 31,000 bags each day.

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In order to speed up flights and improve punctuality, it will install AI-powered turnaround tech.

This will involve a network of cameras being installed across Heathrow.

Using AI to analyse data, the airport will speed up turnaround times between flights, which will make journeys more punctual.

Coverage is expected to be across all terminals by the end of 2026.

Other upgrades will be to accessibility, which will have dedicated access to security for the first time.

Alongside new mobility equipment, Heathrow is investing in upgrades to assistance areas across the airport.

There will be a purpose-built assistance area and the UK’s first Tailored Travel Guide.

Passengers with various access needs can input their travel details and get a personalised step-by-step guide to navigate the airport.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: “Passengers should expect that every time they travel through Heathrow their journey is better than the last.”

He added: “I’m excited to unveil next year’s programme which will make Heathrow more user-friendly, more efficient and more resilient for our customers.

“This investment will flow directly into our nationwide supply chain helping to drive economic growth whilst we make Heathrow even better and more efficient for our customers.” 

The upgrades made in December 2025 are part of Heathrow’s current five-year investment plan.

Previously, Heathrow Airport announced its plan for a £49billion overhaul.

This includes increased passenger capacity at Terminal 5 with the number of aircraft stands set to rise.

It will open a number of new lounges, shops and restaurants within the existing terminals.

And to increase flights, it also hopes to build a third runway which will involve moving part of the M25.

This major airport could become the second biggest in the UK ahead of huge expansion plans…

A plan to expand one UK airport has been approved – meaning it could become the second busiest in the country.

In 2024, the airport saw almost 30million passengers, but with the new plans could see 20million more.

The airport in question is London Stansted in Essex which has plans for more flights, but no structural changes.

London Stansted could rise to become the UK’s second busiest airport, rather than the fourth, after councillors agreed to increase its annual passenger numbers to 51million.

The owner, Manchester Airports Group’s, latest plan is to increase passenger capacity at the airport to between 48 and 51million people per year by 2040.

In comparison, London Gatwick sees between 40 to 43million passengers each year.

While you might think that the airport would need an additional runway, there are no plans to build one.

There won’t be a second runway, or exceed the airport’s limit of 274,000 flights a year.

The way it will increase its passengers is by accommodating larger planes.

On December 17, 2025, Uttlesford District Council’s Planning Committee ruled in favour of the application.

Here’s more on the major airport to hike drop-off fee with strict new 10 minute stays.

Plus, the two major UK airports to be much easier to travel to – after thousands caught out with strict £100 fines.

STATESVILLE, N.C. — A business jet crashed Thursday while trying to return to a North Carolina airport shortly after takeoff, killing all seven people aboard, including retired NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family, authorities said.

The Cessna C550 erupted into a large fire when it hit the ground. It had departed Statesville Regional Airport, about 45 miles north of Charlotte, but soon crashed while trying to return and land, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol said.

Flight records show the plane was registered to a company run by Biffle. The cause of the crash wasn’t immediately known, nor was the reason for the plane’s return to the airport in drizzle and cloudy conditions.

Biffle was on the plane with his wife, Cristina, and children Ryder, 5, and Emma, 14, according to the highway patrol and a family statement. Others on the plane were identified as Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth.

“Each of them meant everything to us, and their absence leaves an immeasurable void in our lives,” the joint family statement said.

Biffle, 55, won more than 50 races across NASCAR’s three circuits, including 19 at the Cup Series level. He also won the Trucks Series championship in 2000 and the Xfinity Series title in 2002.

NASCAR said it was devastated by the news.

“Greg was more than a champion driver; he was a beloved member of the NASCAR community, a fierce competitor, and a friend to so many,” NASCAR said. “His passion for racing, his integrity, and his commitment to fans and fellow competitors alike made a lasting impact on the sport.”

The plane, bound for Florida, took off from the Statesville airport shortly after 10 a.m., according to tracking data posted by FlightAware.com.

Golfers playing next to the airport were shocked as they witnessed the disaster, even dropping to the ground at the Lakewood Golf Club while the plane was overhead. The ninth hole was covered with debris.

“We were like, ‘Oh my gosh! That’s way too low,’” said Joshua Green of Mooresville. “It was scary.”

The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration were investigating.

The Cessna plane, built in 1981, is a popular mid-sized business jet with an excellent reputation, aviation safety expert Jeff Guzzetti said. It has two engines and typically seats six to eight passengers.

In 2024, Biffle was honored for his humanitarian efforts after Hurricane Helene struck the U.S., even using his personal helicopter to deliver aid to flooded, remote western North Carolina.

“The last time I spoke with Cristina, just a couple of weeks ago, she reached out to ask how she could help with relief efforts in Jamaica. That’s who the Biffles were,” U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson, a Republican from North Carolina, said.

Wadsworth was Biffle’s friend and helped him with odd jobs, including delivering supplies to places hit by Hurricane Helene, roommate Benito Howell said.

“He didn’t know how to say no,” Howell said of Wadsworth, who had worked for several NASCAR teams. “He loved everybody. He always tried to help everybody.”

The joint family statement also spoke about Dutton and his son Jack, saying they were “deeply loved as well, and their loss is felt by all who knew them.”

With 2025 almost over, there have been 1,331 U.S. crashes this year investigated by the NTSB, from two-seat planes to commercial aircraft, compared to a total of 1,482 in 2024.

Major air disasters around the world in 2025 include the plane-helicopter collision that killed 67 in Washington, the Air India crash that killed 260 in India, and a crash in Russia’s Far East that claimed 48 lives. Fourteen people, including 11 on the ground, died in a UPS cargo plane crash in Kentucky.

A PLAN to expand one UK airport has been approved – meaning it could become the second busiest in the country.

In 2024, the airport saw almost 30million passengers, but with the new plans could see 20million more.

The airport in question is London Stansted in Essex which has plans for more flights, but no structural changes.

London Stansted could rise to become the UK’s second busiest airport, rather than the fourth, after councillors agreed to increase its annual passenger numbers to 51million.

The owner, Manchester Airports Group’s, latest plan is to increase passenger capacity at the airport to between 48 and 51million people per year by 2040.

In comparison, London Gatwick sees between 40 to 43million passengers each year.

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While you might think that the airport would need an additional runway, there are no plans to build one.

There won’t be a second runway, or exceed the airport’s limit of 274,000 flights a year.

The way it will increase its passengers is by accommodating larger planes.

On December 17, 2025, Uttlesford District Council’s Planning Committee ruled in favour of the application.

The airport currently serves flight across 40 countries, and is already working on an expansion costing a £1.1billion.

This work that started in 2025 is expected to be finished in two to three years and includes more seating areas and new shops, bars and restaurants.

It also includes a larger security hall, more check-in desks and a new baggage reclaim carousel.

Another London airport preparing for expansion is the busiest in the country; London Heathrow.

The £33billion plan for Heathrow Airport to create a third runway was given the green light earlier this year.

And ministers backed plans from the airports owners that would see the M25 moved to make way for the addition.

The Heathrow proposals involve building a 3,500-metre runway and a new M25 tunnel and bridges to be built 130 metres west of the existing motorway.

It is estimated to cost £33 billion, including £1.5 billion on re-routing the M25.

This would see nearby villages like Longford and Harmondsworth demolished.

It will see Heathrow’s capacity increase to 756,000 flights and 150million passengers per year.

For more on airports, here are two major UK airports to be much easier to travel to – after thousands caught out with strict £100 fines.

Plus, this mega £27billion airport set to open in 2032 as ‘Heathrow and Dubai rival’ reveals new name.

A HUGE airport that is set to become a central hub in Poland in the next six years has been renamed.

Work is still yet to begin on the major airport that was originally called Centralny Port Komunikacyjny, or CPK.

Last week, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that the previous name for the country’s upcoming airport, Centralny Port Komunikacyjny, will no longer be used.

He said: “We won’t be using a name that our predecessors discredited,” adding that the planned new airport is intended to serve as “the largest hub in this part of Europe.”

Instead, the airport will be referred to and renamed as Port Polska.

Mr Tusk added: “Everyone who lands there, everyone who uses this airport, everyone who shops there should know: yes—this is the heart of Europe, yes—this is Port Polska.”

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The airport hub has been in the planning stages for many years with work set to begin in 2026 with the first stage of completion set for 2032.

The Polish government estimates put the total cost of the Port Polska project, including the airport and associated rail links, at around PLN 131 billion (£27billion).

The enormous hub will be built in Baranów which is about 25 miles from Warsaw where the current biggest airport in the country is; Warsaw Chopin Airport.

Eventually, Warsaw Chopin Airport will be replaced by Port Polska.

The 450,000sqm airport will have just two runways at first – a third will open by 2045, with plans for long-haul flights.

Inside, the passenger terminal will operate across three levels. On level two will be ticket and baggage check-in, security control, arrivals and departures for the Schengen zone.

Level one will be home to most of the arrivals and departures for the Non-Schengen zone, transfer centres, and passport control.

Level zero will have coach gates for both Schengen and non-Schengen zones, baggage reclaim and an arrivals hall.

It expects to welcome around 34million passengers in its first year, but will grow to as many as 60million.

Building work is set to start next year, and the airport has been designed by Foster + Partners – behind London‘s the Gherkin and the Battersea Roof Gardens.

The huge airport will have other transport links too like an underground train network which will connect it to Warsaw and Lodz.

Holidaymakers in Warsaw will be able to get to the airport in just 20 minutes by train – the airport will also open a bus station for travellers.

Once open, Port Polska will take on some of the world’s biggest transport hubs like London Heathrow which welcomed a record 83.9 million passengers in 2024.

And Dubai International Airport handled 70.1 million passengers by late 2025.

This airport will be the world’s biggest airport – with 185million passengers a year…

King Salman International Airport in Saudi Arabia is set to surpass all other airports in size, including the current biggest airport in the world which is also in the country.

The 22sqm airport will feature six runways – up from two – parallel to each other and will be built around the existing King Khalid International Airport.

It will approximately be the same size as Manhattan in New York – or twice the size of the city of Bath, in the UK.

And now the airport has moved into its construction phase. The airport will be designed by Foster + Partners, a UK firm which is behind London‘s famous Gherkin.

Inside, travellers will be able to explore 4.6sqm of shops. A lot of features in the airport are set to include high tech, such as climate-controlled lighted.

Travellers will have plenty of seating, indoor and outdoor spaces with greenery and vast glass windows, ideal for a bit of plane spotting.

Foster + Partner’s is also developing the Wadi Loop, which will connect the airport to other developments allowing travellers to access different sites more easily.

It will eventually accommodate up to 120million passengers each year, which is then expected to rise to 185million by 2050.

And the number of aircraft takeoffs will rise from 211,000 per year to over one million.

In total, the project is estimated to cost around $30billion (£22.5billion).

If you’re travelling over the Christmas period, check out if you will be affected by the travel chaos predicted for the UK over the festive season.

And the world’s best airport 2025 has been named with new ‘triple runway’ and cheap UK flights.