In recent years, the turnover at Budapest Airport grew dramatically, setting new records. In 2019, passenger traffic sailed above 16 million, 33 new flights were launched to more than 130 destinations in total. Budapest Airport was flying, or so it seemed... Then came the epidemic and with it quarantine, and traffic fell by 97%.
In recent weeks, tourism and with it airport traffic have begun to revive. As the situation around the world changes almost daily the airport must respond in kind. Only this week, after an improving trend around much of Europe, further restrictions were imposed.
During a recent behind-the-scenes press tour, security measures were presented, as well as a couple of new improvements for passenger comfort and safety.
In practical terms, more self-service systems and contactless solutions will be in operation. Budapest Airport has started testing a self-service baggage check-in system: so far, this only applies to passengers on Hungarian carrier Wizz Air, who can independently print and place the baggage tag on the item they want to check-in after scanning the boarding passes.
Afterwards the stickered suitcases can be handed over shortly after the label has been scanned at the baggage-claim barriers placed at the terminals.
New automatic boarding gates are also being tested, to further limit personal contact with staff. Two new passenger-safety control lines were opened in March, which will also reduce crowding and congestion.
Thanks to a recently introduced new technology, larger electronic devices, laptops, tablets, even hair dryers, no longer need be taken out of hand luggage, so much less has to be scanned, and packed in and out. The trays used during the security check are coated with an antibacterial material, and they are continuously disinfected at the end of the day. Social distancing in the security zone is indicated by stickers glued to the ground – in all key public areas, in fact, and on every second seat in the waiting areas.
Needless to say, mask-wearing is mandatory for both crew and passengers, and plenty of automated hand sanitisers have been put out. Disinfecting is regular, especially for surfaces frequently touched by passengers, and the ventilation system.
The new passenger pier, connected to Terminal 2 and a five-minute walk from the gates, has been completed and is only waiting for the final permit. Passengers on budget flights can now wait in an air-conditioned space of minimalist design, spacious and comfortable, with plenty of USB-charging benches. Planes stop 30-50 steps from the boarding gates, but there are also delivery buses, so no more snaking cordons of passengers.
The new luggage classification department and conveyor belts are now being created, which will increase capacity by 50%. A new X-ray system will also be in place, scanning luggage in 3D in line with the EU regulations that will come into force in 2022.
Of course, many are concerned about how safe is the air when travelling by plane – thanks to its separated air-exchange system, experts say it's much safer than public transport in the city and the risk of infection much less.
