The airport claims the increase in charges was the result of tighter security measures ordered by European governments, especially the ban on carrying liquids. Now the airlines contend that the airport should have known about the increased security at the time the new contract was being negotiated.

Meanwhile BIAC, the company that runs the airport, last week advised passengers to arrive earlier for their flights because of new security measures introduced at the weekend. “People should come as early as they would in peak season,” said a spokesman. The tougher measures follow a report that accused the airport of being “too nonchalant” in its procedures.