I seem to remember that the actual baggage loading was done by council workers employed by the airport.
This photo was taken in 1969 soon after the "new" terminal opened.
As well as Autair, Monarch and Britannia I seem to remember British Midland had a couple of desks and then in around maybe 1972 Dan-Air had some check-in desks but facing the other way to the rear of the offices in this photo.
After the luggage was weighed a porter would lift the cases off the scales and place it onto the belt which sat behind the counters.
When those offices were eventually knocked down, which by the way were accessed via a few steps, an old British Midland plastic sign turned up, which had been dumped below the offices. It was an advertising board with BMA Luton routes on it. I wasn't brave enough to ask if I could have it so I guess it was just thrown away.
People dressed smart in those days. Note that all the men are wearing suits or jackets.
