New Delhi: In view of a steep escalation in the India-Pakistan conflict, Indian carriers have advised passengers to arrive at airports three hours before departure.
This follows a direction from Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to all airlines and airports across the country to enhance security measures.
All passengers at all airports will undergo Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC), while visitor entry to terminal buildings has been banned, ANI reported, quoting sources in Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Air India, Akasa Air and IndiGo have issued travel advisories on Thursday night.
Air India advisory
“In view of an order by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security on enhanced measures at airports, passengers across India are advised to arrive at their respective airports at least three hours prior to scheduled departure to ensure smooth check-in and boarding. Check-in closes 75 mins before departure.”
Akasa Air advisory
“Due to enhanced security measures at all airports across India, we request you to reach the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure, to ensure a seamless check-in and boarding experience. Please ensure you carry valid government-approved photo identification documents for entry to the airport. In addition to your check-in baggage, only one handbag weighing upto 7 kgs will be permitted. As per regulatory guidelines, all passengers will be required to undergo secondary security checks before boarding.”
IndiGo advisory
“In these extraordinary times, heightened security measures are taken up across all airports. We request you to allow some extra time for your journey to accommodate security checks and formalities. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.”
Around 24 airports across India have already been closed for commercial flights until at least Saturday morning.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) issued two NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) regarding closure of airports, leading to major disruptions in air traffic and cancellations of several flights.
At Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International airport, 90 flights were cancelled between 8 am and 2 pm on Thursday.
