THE authorities of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) are working to improve passengers’ experience at the airport.

This was said by CJIA in response to a letter, which was published in the Stabroek News on Sunday, titled: “suggestions to improve passengers’ experience at CJIA.”

“We wish to thank the letter writer for these useful suggestions. Online and self-check-in processes are currently available for departing passengers,” said the CJIA in a press statement.

According to the authorities of the airport, a new contract was recently signed for the upgrade of a Common Use Terminal Systems. This project will see the introduction of additional check-in counters as well as four self-check-in kiosks.

These features will significantly reduce passenger check-in queuing times. Also, the airport corporation is in the process of procuring an In-line Baggage Handling System. This system will comprise a high-resolution Computer Tomography Explosive Trace Detection Machine which will be used to screen passengers’ checked luggage.

This new system will automatically identify anomalies and send those bags for secondary screening. This new equipment will see higher baggage throughput rates and will further reduce the time passengers spend before clearing security.

“Similarly, we are in the process of acquiring several modern walk-through metal detectors and hand luggage scanners for the various access control points,” said CJIA.

The recommendation regarding the completion of arrivals and departure records from a paper-based system to an online system is currently being pursued. CJIA is also working closely with the Ministry of Citizenship to implement the Automated Immigration Clearance Systems.

This new system will allow for qualifying, arriving passengers to self-process and clear immigration upon arrival into the country. Other projects the airport will embark upon to improve the passenger experience include more choices in food and beverage as well as duty-free shopping. “We remain committed to improving the passenger experience and will continue to work closely with our stakeholders and airport users to ensure this is accomplished,” said CJIA.