Tired of airport formalities? Soon, an 'assistant' will help you
What's the story
The Union Civil Aviation Ministry is all set to approve 'meet and greet' plan which will improve fliers' experience in airports across India, HT reports.
As part of this proposed policy, fliers can hire assistants who will aid in their check-in, security checks, immigration, and will also wait for them at airport lounges.
The facility can be availed by economy class fliers too.
Workings
Understanding how this service will work
Apart from the aforementioned facilities, fliers will also be taken to the boarding gate in a golf cart, the report cited quoting three officials privy to the development.
The expected price of this service would be Rs. 5,000/passenger.
Those flying out will be received at the parking area and will get assistance at every step. Similarly, arriving passengers will be greeted at aerobridge.
Details
The facilitators will get all-area passes, says an official
Reportedly, airports will hire a company to facilitate passengers.
An official said currently there is no policy which allows issuing of airport entry pass to help fliers. Commercial passes are issued to entities like hotels but they can only receive passengers from customs area.
"Now, the proposal is to give all-area passes to employees of the 'meet and greet' company," he explained.
Organization
Airports across globe have this facility, India next in line
Further, another official of Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) said this facility is available in airports across the world. He added it existed in India too, but in an unorganized manner.
"The (hired) company can have a tie-up with a lounge, it will also be able to provide access to the first-class lane for frisking, where there is hardly any queue," he added.
Changing traveling
CEO of consulting firm tells this service will help many
The official said passengers took wheelchairs to avoid long walks. "Those who can afford it will now be able to pay and use these add-on services," he said.
Another official said the security won't be compromised as a thorough background check of 'assistants' will be done.
Mark Martin, CEO of Dubai-based Martin Consulting, said this service will help elderly traveling alone and first-time fliers.