Long security checks at Cologne–Bonn: What Mallorca travelers need to know

Key question: Why do security checks take longer elsewhere — and how does that affect Mallorca travelers?

If you join the queue at the check‑in desk in Palma (Son Sant Joan) early in the morning, you can hear the coffee machine humming, seagulls circling over the car parks and announcements in two languages. What you don't hear immediately: elsewhere, for example in Cologne–Bonn, technicians and scanner equipment are currently setting up temporary barriers — and that has consequences for connections used by many Mallorcans and holidaymakers.

What happened?

Cologne–Bonn is installing modern screening devices that are meant to make opening laptops and separating liquids unnecessary. A good idea, of course. The change, however, requires space: construction routes, equipment setups and cordoned-off gates mean that fewer screening lanes can operate at the same time. At the same time, there have been illness-related absences at an external security company. The result: waiting times often of 45–60 minutes, especially in the morning.

Why is this relevant for people from Mallorca?

The question sounds trivial, but it is important: many passengers do not travel from the same place as their destination. Direct connections, transfers and return flights link Son Sant Joan with airports across Europe. If waiting times suddenly increase at a hub, it affects connecting flights, delays and the nerves of families, commuters and seasonal workers on the island. A delayed boarding in Cologne can mean long waits in Palma, missed connecting buses or inconvenient rebookings.

What is often overlooked publicly?

First: dependence on external security firms is a risk. If staff are unavailable at short notice, the whole system is affected faster than you might think. Second: real‑time communication does not always work — passengers are not informed in time when a terminal section is closed or a fast lane is temporarily available. Third: modernization is the right long‑term step, but it produces short‑term bottlenecks that can severely disrupt travel chains.

Concrete opportunities and solutions

For travelers: allow extra time. Those flying from Palma to Cologne or onward should arrive at the airport at least two to three hours before departure during peak times. Use airlines' online information and airport tools to get current notices about security checks and gate changes. Pack carry‑on so that liquids and electronic devices are easily accessible — it sounds trivial, but it saves minutes in the queue.

For airports and authorities: better staffing pools that can step in at short notice and clearer real‑time communication are needed. Mobile signage, pop‑up fast lanes and pre‑test days with public traffic could smooth transition phases. Investments in technology should be accompanied by coordinated staffing plans, not made afterwards.

Practical tips for Mallorca travelers

Have breakfast at the gate rather than on the highway: those who check their boarding pass and departure status stay calmer. Families should use special airport services — escorted checks or family lanes save time. Business travelers should consider flexible tickets or bookings with larger transfer windows. And if you really don't want to rush: an earlier train or an airport hotel the night before is sometimes cheaper than the stress of the morning.

Conclusion

Upgrading security checks is necessary and will make travel easier in the long run. In the short term, however, it creates bottlenecks, especially when staff absences occur. For Mallorcans who regularly leave or arrive at Palma airport, this means: allow a little more time, use digital notices and stay calm. One more espresso in hand, a slower look at the sea before departure or a delayed boarding — everything is more bearable when you're prepared.