I past through Luton last month. Security was like a well oiled machine that only 4 of the 16 security lines needing to be open. One of the things that slows down the queues is the lack of staff efficiency training and using inefficient security equipment. Airports make money from retail and nothing from security lines so it is in their interests to get passengers through security as quick as possible.
One of the issues Southend faces is that the really busy period is probably around 90 minutes but staff won’t work for 90 minute shifts so a balance has to be reached with staffing levels. I see today there are 4 departures timed for 6:30 and then 7:00 and 7:05. Basically that is the busy period over for the day.
With no public transport on offer for those passengers and reported long queues maybe Southend in the early morning is an airport to avoided? This would be a real shame.