UK holidaymakers told to fly with hand luggage only to reduce airport queues

Holidaymakers facing long lines at UK airports have been told to only carry hand luggage in order to avoid delays.

As the country's travel hubs battle delays and cancellation amid a surge in half-term demand, passengers should take a small bag and not check anything into the hold, according to the union that represents aviation workers.

The suggestion was not endorsed by the union representing airline pilots, who wanted to give a full professional service at all times.

Andy Prendergast is the national secretary of the GMB union. It is not a magic bullet, but it does reduce the chance of issues.

If it is possible, travel lighter and faster by taking hand luggage only. It's not easy to do but it will help smooth journeys if you can.

Delays on the bank holiday road will compound UK travel problems.

According to Martin Chalk, general secretary of the pilot's union, that is not Balpa's advice, pilots want a full professional service at all times.

We work hard to avoid delays and cancelations. When there aren't experienced staff to make sure the operation is safe, delays and cancellation are inevitable.

Air industry sources said that it was impractical for people taking a week's break to carry all their luggage.

The advice to passengers about what luggage they should take for their holiday has not changed even though airports have been hit by long delays.

John Irving, chief executive of the airport, told the Today programme on Thursday that people have to make their own decisions on what is best for them.

The current advice to passengers by both airports is the same.