Ryanair threatens action over airport security

Budget airline Ryanair is threatening to sue the government if normal airport security measures are not re-instated.

Ryanair Chief Executive Michael O'Leary said that the measures restricting baggage and endorsing passenger searches risked handing extremists an "enormous PR victory."

Ryanair, which prefers less hold baggage and larger hand luggage allowances to keep overheads on baggage handling low, says it is considering suing the government for compensation and has given a seven-day ultimatum.

However, the government remains adamant that it will neither pay compensation nor compromise passenger security.

The Department for Transport said that the security measures, put in place as a result of the level of perceived security threat, were kept under constant review.

The 1982 Aviation Security Act allows sweeping security measures to be implemented for the safety and protection of the public.

However, Ryanair are looking at taking action under the auspices of the Transport Act 2000 in a bid to claim compensation.

The escalating costs of security have already hit the headline this week as airports operator BAA faces a huge bill from the Metropolitan Police for security.

Other airlines are examining the implications of the extra costs incurred by airport security, and have suggested that the government should pay for additional security staff.

(SP/KMcA)