Plane passengers will be asked to turn up three hours before flying as airport chiefs implement new security measures after Tuesday's US plane hijackings.

The UK directive is due to start today, but it was unclear last night when the airport would open for business.

A Government statement advised the public to arrive two-and-a-half to three hours before their flight departure time.

Acting airport general manager Mike Osborn said: "Once scheduled airline services are reinstated we will be in a better position to assess how quickly passengers can be checked in and processed through the various screening procedures."

Security procedures will include: random searching of carry-on baggage; random searching of passenger hold baggage; a ban on unaccompanied baggage being stored on aircraft; a full search of each aircraft before passengers board and before departure; and increased airport patrols.

The departures hall will be reconfigured to conform with the new directives.

Vehicles will be banned from parking by the kerb-side of terminal buildings.

Mr. Osborn said: "We ask all passengers to realise the importance of these increased security measures in view of the recent USA tragedy and request your patience and co-operation."

Last night Police began to withdraw extra security from the cruise ship terminals, but armed guards are being kept at the American Consulate in Devonshire.

An Emergency Measures Organisation spokesman said: "We're anticipating a reduction in Regiment deployment, but it will constantly be reassessed."

Soldiers were a reassuring sight to most American tourists after Tuesday's tragedy, according to several Regiment sources.

One source said: "The tourists want to take your picture, a lot of them want to shake your hand. They feel a lot safer."

Horizon passenger Pat Simon, from Atlanta, told The Royal Gazette: "I was happy to see the soldiers."

Truckers hoping to dump construction waste and large items at the airport dump will have to produce identification, the Government announced yesterday.

The Works and Engineering Ministry said the measures were in line with heightened airport security. Truckers must report to security police there.