Next Generation Security Checkpoints - intended to slash waiting times by allowing passengers to leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on baggage - are only in place at one UK airport.
Ministers have been accused of failing Christmas holidaymakers after it emerged that none of Britain s ten busiest airports have fully installed fast-track security scanners.
Britons travelling to the EU next autumn face a tripling in queuing times because of new fingerprint and photo checks, the French authorities have said.
Families are facing a scramble for holiday discounts against a background of spiralling costs for hotels and flights. Travel experts warn prices are set to soar by 10%.