13 Jun Saudi Team completes first phase of security reviews at Pakistan Airports
A delegation of eight officials from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia has concluded their first visit to Pakistan, the purpose of which is to inspect security processes and agreements.
The members of GACA examined security measures implemented by Pakistan International Airlines (PIRA), Gerry’s-Dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers, and Pakistan’s Airport Security Force (ASF). They also reviewed the security arrangements put in place by Saudi Airlines, ensuring that all parts of the Airport process were adequate.
Passenger and Cargo security, catering services, baggage handling and more were scrutinized.
“The inspectors carefully examined passenger pre-boarding, non-passenger screening, hold baggage screening, CCTV system and restricted area access among other security measures enforced at the Jinnah International Airport Karachi.”
The visit comes after the signing of the ‘Road to Makkah’ agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on May 17th. The agreement aims to simplify the immigration process for Pakistani pilgrims travelling to the holy city.
Initially implemented at Islamabad International Airport, the initiative will be expanded to include Karachi and Lahore airports, facilitating the travel experience for pilgrims.
Saudi Arabian Airlines, now known as Saudia, is among the top three foreign airlines in Pakistan in terms of passenger volume.
With the first inspections completed, the next visit is set to take place on June 13th, in airports such as Islamabad, Peshawar, Lahore, Sialkot and Multan.
