Baggage delays at Auckland airport

Auckland Airport admits there have been a few hiccups with its new baggage security system but is confident the situation will improve.

All baggage is now required to be screened under Civil Aviation Authority regulations, but airlines have complained that passengers' luggage is sometimes being left behind because it cannot be checked through on time. Some are seeking compensation.

Board of Airline Representatives executive director Stewart Milne said 250 bags were left behind at Auckland on one flight alone last weekend.

Airport Chief Executive Don Huse said the screening upgrade has been a very complex programme which has taken three years to design and install at a cost of $30 million, but the vast majority of bags have left the airport with the aircraft on time.

Mr Huse said the new system should be running smoothly within the next few weeks.

- NEWSTALK ZB, NZPA