I note that the US, which suffered the worst terrorist attack in world history, still lets you drop off outside the terminal building. We're mugs.
Anybody remember Glasgow?
Also TSA, pull a fraction of the bags aside for "re-screening" than security theatre in the UK, it's a for-show pantomime to a large extent.
But having established a level of checking, how do you reduce it? The first incident would be perceived to be down to the reduction in checking levels.
One can only conclude that the gradual closing down of these areas is a carefully orchestrated plan over the last few years by the airport management to make these charges seem 'inevitable'.
How do people expect airports to be paid for? You can't have low fares and "free" airports.