- This approach may not directly contribute to enhancing security.
- CAOP says security protocols should focus on passenger safety.
- The CAOP President recommends exploring advanced security technologies.
KARACHI: The Civil Aviation Officers Association of Pakistan (CAOP) has urged authorities at Karachi Airport to review their recent imposition of additional security restrictions, recommending instead the adoption of advanced technology to enhance security.
Following the deadly attack on a Chinese convoy, which left at least two Chinese nationals dead and several others injured nearby, airport authorities asked visitors to bring additional documents, while also closing the road to the airport and setting up checkpoints on other roads.
The airport authorities asked visitors who accompany or receive passengers to submit a copy of their ticket and their national ID card.
Meanwhile, the road from Model Colony to Jinnah station has been closed, while checkpoints have been set up on the roads from Pahlawan Goth and Star Jet, adding to the challenges faced by commuters who are already suffering from heavy traffic congestion.
In his letter to the Director of Vigilance, Airports Authority of Pakistan, CAOP Chairman Zareen Gul Durrani said that while he fully supports strengthening airport security, he believes that these measures may inadvertently complicate the experience of passengers and their families and friends accompanying them.
He said security protocols should focus primarily on passenger safety without imposing unnecessary restrictions.
“The current approach, which imposes additional requirements on arrivals to receive or dispatch passengers, may not directly contribute to enhanced security but instead increases inconvenience to regular visitors.”
Zaman said that it would be useful to focus security efforts more narrowly, and ensure that they target individuals who may pose a real threat to airport security.
He recommended exploring advanced security technologies, such as CCTV monitoring, biometric scanners, and artificial intelligence-based threat detection systems to enhance security “without imposing additional restrictions on passengers and their families.”
The CAOP chief said modern tools can significantly enhance airport security while keeping the process smooth for passengers and receivers.
He also emphasized high-level training for security personnel to properly deal with potential threats.
“In addition, training security personnel to deal with potential threats and respond effectively is crucial. Empowering security personnel with advanced training will help ensure they are fully prepared for any unexpected situations, enhancing passenger safety,” he added.