GUWAHATI:
Taking cognizance of rampant passenger growth and congestion at different touch points, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA), Guwahati, has urged passengers to reach the airport early to avoid the rush during departure.
“Airport is predicted to encounter heavy footfalls in the ensuing season and therefore it appeals to departing passengers to reach airport 2-3 hours before the scheduled departure time. At present, LGBI airport is handling more than 120 air traffic movements with passengers over 15000 per day,” said Ruma Devi Keot, spokesperson of Guwahati International Airport Ltd (AGIAL), the company which presently runs the airport.
“We have recently published a travel advisory, requesting domestic bound flight passengers to report 2 to 3 hours early to avoid congestion. The airport is expecting a surge in passenger volume with the onset of the festive season,” Keot said.
She informed that the present passenger terminal, commissioned in the year 1998, can handle only 450 peak hour passengers whereas the actual number during the peak hour is almost three times the capacity. “The new integrated terminal building (NITB) which is under construction is likely to be ready for operations in the year 2024,” Keot said.
To cope up with the situation, GIAL has made several changes to augment the existing facilities, however, it could cater little to the huge demand. Pre-embarkation security check facilities, installation of self-check-in counters (CUSS), installation of electronic gates (e-Gates) etc have been worked out for facilitating the passengers.
“At Guwahati International Airport, our team is committed to always prioritising the safety and well-being of the passengers, while ensuring a seamless experience of an efficient air hub at our airport”, the travel advisory stated.
Both the airline and the airport operator are using various media including social media platforms, to alert passengers about possible congestion at the airport and to report early.