CISF notifies guidelines for Strict Implementation of “One Hand Bag Rule” in airports
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) notified guidelines for Strict Implementation of “One Hand Bag Rule” in airports.
In an attempt to reduce congestion at airports, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) directed airports and airlines to strictly follow the ‘one handbag rule’. As per the order issued, all passengers travelling by flight can carry only one bag inside the cabin of the airport. The airlines and airports have been asked to implement the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security’s (BCAS) one-bag order.
As per BCAS AVSEC Circular Nos. 06/2000 & 11/2000, no passenger should be permitted to carry more than one hand bag other than those items already listed in the circular including lady’s bag. However, it has been seen that passenger on an average carries 02-03 Nos of hand bags to the screening point. This has led to increased clearance time as well as delays, congestion in PESC point and inconvenience to passengers. It is therefore felt that enforcement of the aforesaid Circulars must be ensured by all stakeholders / airlines.
“It is learnt that the decision has been taken as there were complaints of increased clearance time as well as delays, congestion in PESC point, and inconvenience to passengers. Therefore, all stakeholders/airlines must ensure the enforcement of the aforesaid Circulars. The rule is applicable to all domestic flights in India,” the notification read.
Hence, in order to implement the BCAS Circulars Nos. 06/2000 & 11/2000 on ground, BCAS may suitably inform the airlines to implement the following measures All airlines and airport operators may be instructed to take steps to implement ‘One Hand Bag rule’ meticulously on ground to ease out the congestion and other security concerns. Airlines may be made responsible and depute staff to guide pax, check and verify their hand bag status etc, before allowing the passenger for Pre-embarkation security checks. All airlines may be directed suitably to inform pax and to display “one hand bag rule’ on their tickets/ boarding passes very conspicuously owing to its sensitivity.
Airport Operators may be instructed to place hoarding / banner/ board / standees displaying the contents of the ‘One hand bag Rule’ near the the check-in counters, vantage locations before SHA at the airports, so that passengers get sensitized and if required, have an option to switch their extra hand bags to registered baggage.
