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Flight delayed? Now, you can deboard and exit through departure gates as per new guidelines
As per the latest development, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the aviation security watchdog, has issued new guidelines to address extended flight delays. As per the latest directive, which came into effect since March 30, comes in response to the increasing incidents of flight delays and congestion at airports, which often lead to passengers being stranded inside aircraft for prolonged periods after boarding. If reports are to go by, the fresh guidelines will help such passengers in distress.Referring to this, BCAS Director General Zulfiquar Hasan stated that these guidelines aim to reduce disembark through the departure gate of the airport in cases of prolonged delays or emergencies after boarding. Hasan clarified that airport operators are responsible for arranging the necessary infrastructure, including screening facilities, to implement these guidelines. The decision to allow passengers to deboard will be made jointly by airlines and relevant security agencies. Previously, Hasan had mentioned BCAS's efforts to address unwelcome congestion at airports by setting optimal standards and deploying tools to mitigate the issue. Reports further add that additionally, BCAS plans to introduce smart security lanes to enhance the passenger experience.
Hasan also noted that full-body scanners are expected to become operational at Bangalore airport this month, with plans for gradual deployment at airports with annual passenger traffic exceeding 5 million.
In February, BCAS directed seven scheduled airlines to ensure prompt delivery of baggage upon aircraft landing, addressing complaints of delayed baggage retrieval by passengers.
Hasan further stressed that these guidelines aim to minimize inconvenience for passengers, allowing them to exit through the departure gate in cases of prolonged delays or emergencies after boarding. Airport operators are tasked with providing the necessary infrastructure, while airlines and security agencies will jointly decide on passenger disembarkation.
Source: Times of India
