Switzerland's main airports are preparing to deal with a steep rise in passengers as the peak holiday period began during the weekend (July 14-15), the official Swissinfo website reported.

As air travel is becoming increasingly popular, thousands of passengers are expected at the country's major airports over the next few days, which will result in a higher workload for personnel.

Added to this is the fact that passengers are still subject to tougher security measures, introduced last year, which restrict the amount of liquids they can carry on-board planes.

On average it is estimated that two tons of liquids, such as perfumes, gels and drinks, are confiscated from hand luggage at Swiss airports every day - a lot of extra work for staff, Swissinfo said.

Mark Rauch, spokesman for Zurich airport, Switzerland's largest air traffic center, said that the airport was well able to manage the situation.

"When we know we'll be dealing with an above average number of airport users, we lay on extra staff, so that we can reduce the inevitable inconveniences to the minimum," Rauch was quoted by Swissinfo as saying.

Similar measures, aimed at avoiding queues and delays, are planned for Geneva airport.

"Apart from increasing the number of staff, passengers are also encouraged to make sure they get to the airport early," said Olivier Deletraz, a member of the airport's management. "Information campaigns are also important," he said.