RAWALPINDI: Director General Airport Authority took notice of complaints of thefts and loss of valuables, and subpar food quality at Islamabad International Airport canteen, and sought more details from the victims of theft and directed to assist in further investigation.

In addition, the DG PAA directed the airport management to check the presence of beggars at airports and to ensure a pleasant environment for passengers.

A spokesman for the PAA said in a press release on Thursday thatthe Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) held its first-ever DG PAA e-Katcheri, an interactive session streamed live on the PAA and Civi Aviation Authority (PCAA) Facebook pages.

Chaired by Director General PAA, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Zeeshan Saeed SI(M), the event aimed to address public queries concerning the country’s airports.

Taking notice of complaints of subpar quality of food at Islamabad airport canteen and theft and loss of valuables at the airport, the PAA DGsought more details from the complainant to conduct thorough investigation into theft and loss of other valuables.

The PAA DGalso ordered forimmediate remedial measures on the complaint of presence of beggars at airports. The DG also instructed to improve facilities at Islamabad International Airport Gandhara Art Gallery.

During the session, Director Planning and Development shared updates on Sukkur Airport’s upgradation project.

The director revealed that initial planning is complete, and land acquisition is underway. The goal is to enable the airport to accommodate Boeing 777 aircraft, which will significantly enhance regional connectivity.

This upgrade will bring improved aviation facilities to the region’s residents, particularly in Sukkur, greatly enhancing their overall air travel experience. Adding to this, the DG highlighted ongoing upgradation and expansion projects at Karachi, Lahore and Skardu airports, alongside over 100 other projects nationwide.

The DG also addressed several other queries during the session. These included thefts and loss of valuables, where the DG requested complainants to provide specific details to aid in further investigation, said the spokesman. Baggage handling was also discussed, with improvements noted at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport, where baggage handling times are now within IATA limits, said the spokesman.

Lastly, the DG took on a complaint about subpar food at Islamabad International Airport canteen and measures being implemented to streamline management at the Gandhara Art Gallery and improve the overall visitors’ experience, said the spokesman.

The PAA DG emphasised PAA’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience and operational standards. The e-Katcheri concluded with a vote of thanks to the participants, whose feedback is valued as a vital tool for improving airport services and infrastructure.

Published in Dawn, December 6th, 2024