of 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. -- instead of around the clock, it was revealed yesterday.

However a Police spokesman stressed that a private security firm was keeping watch over the property when officers were not on duty.

And roving Police patrols continually monitor the Civil Air Terminal and a direct phone line to St. George's Police station was available for the public to use when needed.

The spokesman said officers are also at the station when irregular flights were scheduled to take off and land.

Originally there were officers on duty at the airport 24 hours a day but the new system has been in effect for a few months.

It is understood to be a move to free up more manpower to help the Police Service in other areas.