New Delhi: Security measures have tightened for Air India passengers as the airlines have asked them to arrive three hours before their flight's take-off time. Stringent measures at the airports are being conducted following the Pathankot attacks and the upcoming of India's 66th Republic Day celebrations.
Issuing of boarding cards to people travelling abroad are conducted and done with an hour before the scheduled take-off time. Also, 45 minutes before departure, the check-in counters of domestic flights are shut down. Although no amendments are made to the appeal issued on Monday, All officials said that it was a preventive measure which may prove effective to avoid delays due to slow terminal movement.
"Baggage checks have become stern in the wake of the heightened security arrangements. As a result, it is better if people report early for their flight," said an official.
The action was confirmed by an airline spokesperson. The airline issued a statement saying, "Air India accords utmost importance to the safety and security of its passengers and equipment. In view of the recent security alert in the country, passengers/baggage may have to undergo more stringent checks at airports. To avoid any delays to the flight departures owing to these procedures, Air India has requested passengers to report at the counter well in time for check-in."
After the terror incident at the Pathankot Air Force base on January 2, all Indian airports went on high alert. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued directives which stated the increase of a number of armed jawans posted at watch towers in front of airport entry gates, as a consequence. (picture courtesy: www.scoopwhoop.com)(Inputs from agencies)