The charges could be introduced in the New Year

The scheme - thought to be the first of its kind at a UK airport - would require people to pay up to �2 to pass through a turnstile before boarding.

Managers say the extra revenue would help meet the �3m cost of increased security measures brought in this year.

Security was increased at UK airports in August after an alleged plot to blow up planes using liquid explosives.

Although restrictions on taking hand baggage and liquids on board have since been eased, the measures are still creating extra work for airport staff.

The insurance costs in particular have been escalating massively - our costs have gone up on security from about �2m to �5m Neil Pakey, Managing Director

Airport managing director Neil Pakey told BBC Radio Merseyside: "The security requirements have apparently been relaxed - but you would not feel that here.

"The insurance costs in particular have been escalating massively - our costs have gone up on security from about �2m to �5m."

Mr Pakey said the liquid checks required by new security measures were also putting a strain on resources.

Taxi charges

The plan to charge passengers is thought to be one of a number of options being considered by the airport to recoup its increased costs, and could be introduced in the New Year.

It has emerged in the same week Hackney cab taxi drivers threatened to demonstrate in protest at a decision to charge them to operate at the airport.