BCAS Sets New Rules for Indian Airlines for Faster Baggage Delivery

In response to widespread complaints about baggage delays plaguing major airports in India, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has taken decisive action.

A recent directive issued by the authority has put the country’s top airlines on notice, demanding immediate improvements to their baggage handling procedures or face severe consequences.

Warning Letters Sent to Top Carriers

According to reports from Asian News International (ANI), BCAS has dispatched warning letters to the leading seven carriers operating in India.

IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa, Air India Express Connect, Vistara, and Air India Express have all been singled out for failing to meet baggage delivery standards.

Survey Reveals Need for Action

BCAS’s decision follows a comprehensive survey conducted at six major airports across the nation, where the airlines above dominate the landscape. The survey highlighted significant deficiencies in baggage handling, prompting BCAS to intervene.

New Rules for Baggage Delivery

As per the new regulations, airlines are required to deliver passenger baggage within a specific timeframe of 10 to 30 minutes following the aircraft’s engine shutdown. This timeframe aims to streamline baggage handling procedures and minimize inconvenience caused by delays.

Strict Action for Non-Compliance

A stringent timeline has been set for implementing these regulations, with airlines given a 10-day window to comply. The deadline for full compliance is February 26, 2024.

BCAS has warned of severe repercussions for airlines failing to meet these deadlines, signalling a zero-tolerance approach towards lax baggage handling.

Initiation of Monitoring Exercise

In a proactive move, BCAS, under the auspices of the Aviation Ministry, has already commenced monitoring operations at the outset of 2024. This proactive stance aims to preempt any further instances of delayed baggage delivery, ensuring a smoother and more efficient travel experience for passengers nationwide.

Conclusion

BCAS’s decisive action underscores the importance of prompt and efficient baggage handling in enhancing the overall travel experience. With strict deadlines in place and monitoring initiatives underway, passengers can look forward to smoother transitions at airports across India in the coming days.

(With Inputs from ANI)