UK: Manchester Airport chief stands down after travel chaos

Manchester Airport's managing director is to stand down amid criticism of long security queues which have led to passengers missing flights. Manchester Airports Group (MAG) said Karen Smart had decided to leave the business after eight years. Earlier, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said police and fire and rescue service staff could be drafted in to help tackle the chaos. Ian Costigan will take on the role of interim managing director. Travellers at the airport, which is owned by Greater Manchester's 10 councils and an investment firm, have faced long queues for check-in and security over the past month. The problems first came to light in mid-March when passengers were left waiting for hours, with some forced to queue outside in the car park while others missed their flights. MAG previously apologised and said the industry was "facing staff shortages and recruitment challenges at present, after the most damaging two years in its history".<br/>