Caa upgrades airport baggage screening for enhanced security
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in Pakistan is taking steps to enhance airport security ahead of the Hajj operations in 2024, as reported by a private TV channel. In preparation for this important event, the CAA will be installing advanced luggage-checking machines at airports across the country.
To ensure the safety of passengers traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj, thorough checks will be conducted. In order to facilitate this process, state-of-the-art machines will be imported from Saudi Arabia specifically for scanning the luggage of individuals traveling to the Kingdom. These cutting-edge machines are expected to be handed over to the Air Security Force (ASF) in February 2024.
Additionally, it has been announced that the older baggage machines currently in use will be gradually replaced with the new ones. This upgrade is a significant step towards improving security measures at airports in Pakistan.
During a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Aviation chaired by Senator Hidayatullah, the Director General of Civil Aviation highlighted a concerning limitation of the current machines. He revealed that these machines, despite being the latest models, are unable to detect ice (Crystal methamphetamine) drugs. This revelation underscores the need for advanced technology and ongoing efforts to enhance airport security in the country.
The CAA’s initiative to improve luggage-checking capabilities is a vital step towards ensuring the safety of travelers, particularly during the upcoming Hajj operations. By investing in state-of-the-art machines and gradually replacing older equipment, the aviation authority is taking proactive measures to enhance security at airports across Pakistan.
Source: [Daily Times](https://dailytimes.com.pk)