Václav Havel Airport Prague is ushering in a new era of streamlined travel by upgrading its security screening and check-in processes. The airport is introducing state-of-the-art CT X-ray machines at Terminal 2 that allow passengers to leave electronics and liquids in their hand luggage—a welcome change designed to speed up the journey through security.
Enhanced Security Screening with CT Scanners
The innovative CT scanners represent a major technological advancement in passenger screening. According to Prague Airport chief Jiří Pos, this “completely new technology” will not only simplify the security process but also increase checkpoint capacity significantly. Currently, two scanners are in operation, with an additional four scheduled to be installed by the end of June and four more planned for next year. These new machines are expected to boost Terminal 2’s screening capacity by roughly 20% and support a modest annual increase in security staff by about six percent.
One of the most notable benefits of these scanners is that travelers no longer need to remove their laptops, smartphones, or liquids from their bags during the screening process. However, the existing regulation remains in force: liquids must still be contained in bottles of no more than 100 milliliters each, with a total allowed volume of 1 liter. Spokesperson Denisa Hejtmánková emphasized that while the convenience is enhanced, safety rules continue to be rigorously observed.
Modernized Check-In Procedures
In tandem with the new CT scanners, Prague Airport is also advancing its check-in operations. The growing adoption of self-service bag drop and check-in kiosks is a key part of this modernization effort, allowing passengers to process their luggage and boarding passes with minimal waiting time. These improvements are especially significant as the airport prepares for a bustling travel season.
The integration of automated check-in systems not only enhances operational efficiency but also helps manage the increasing passenger volume more effectively. By reducing bottlenecks at security and check-in, the airport aims to provide a smoother and more comfortable experience from arrival to departure.
Record Passenger Numbers and Expanded Flight Network
These technological enhancements come at a time when Prague Airport is expecting a record-breaking season. Passenger numbers are forecasted to exceed 18 million this year, surpassing the previous peak of 17.8 million in 2019. The airport is actively working to mitigate challenges brought on by the withdrawal of certain airlines and the loss of routes from regions such as Russia and Ukraine, which together accounted for an estimated shortfall of 3.5 million passengers.
In addition to upgrading its security and check-in infrastructure, the airport is expanding its network of international flights. New and enhanced routes include a direct connection to Toronto with Air Canada, increased capacity on the Seoul route with Asiana Airlines, and a new service to Abu Dhabi via Etihad Airways. Short-haul connections are also on the rise, with Air Baltic launching a route to Vilnius that reconnects Prague with all Baltic capitals, and Croatia Airlines introducing a new route to Zagreb. London remains the most frequented destination with up to 100 weekly flights, while other popular routes include Paris, Antalya, Amsterdam, and emerging holiday spots such as Comiso, Zanzibar, and Podgorica.
Looking Ahead
The combination of advanced CT scanning technology, modernized self-service check-in, and an expanded flight network underscores Prague Airport’s commitment to enhancing both operational efficiency and passenger comfort. As the airport adapts to growing passenger numbers and evolving security needs, these innovations are poised to set a new standard in airport operations—ensuring that travelers enjoy a smoother, faster, and more reliable journey from check-in to takeoff.