Airlines say they share customers' frustration at Auckland Airport's passenger congestion woes.

Thousands are expected to fly in and out of the airport tomorrow as it continues to deal with big Customs wait times during busy periods.

The Board of Airline Representatives claim the airport says it has capacity for just over 2000 passengers an hour on a rolling 5-minute basis.

However, congestion's occurring well below that level.

Executive Director Cath O'Brien told Tim Dower it's frustrating to see the airport blame airlines because of slightly early or late flights – which is expected.

“When in fact what we would look for is that they would manage their airport well, and frankly as of late that’s not been happening.”

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