Safety concerns have been raised over the decision to end bag searches at three Scottish airports.

Passengers travelling to Glasgow from Barra, Tiree and Campbeltown will not be searched from January 30.

Owner Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd (Hial) said it has taken "full account of safety and security".

The Prospect union, which represents staff whose jobs are at risk as a result of the move, claims the decision will put people in danger.

Union representative David Avery said: "Prospect believes this change is unreasonable and disproportionate and puts staff and passengers at risk.

"The current regime of security checks was introduced more than ten years ago and has been largely successful.

"But despite the long-standing rules, security staff regularly find passengers carrying prohibited liquids, small knives and in extreme cases, firearms ammunition."

Airport staff will still be allowed to search passengers if they have concerns.

A Hial spokesman said: "From January 30, new security procedures will be introduced at Campbeltown, Barra and Tiree airports which will mean that passengers travelling to Glasgow will undergo a streamlined check-in process at their departure airport ahead of their flight.

"The new measures, agreed with the Civil Aviation Authority and the Department for Transport, are proportionate and take full account of safety and security.

"Customers transferring to onward destinations will be required required to reclaim their luggage, check-in and join the existing security procedures at Glasgow Airport."

About a dozen people are employed on a part-time basis at the airports but it is unclear how many positions are under threat as a result of the changes.

Prospect has urged Hial to delay the decision to allow for a "full consultation with users and staff".