International transit passengers at the Delhi airport would soon be able to shop at duty free shops, enjoy a drink at the swanky Terminal 3 or head for a refreshing massage as they wait for their connecting flight. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) - the aviation sector's security regulator - has finally given an in-principle approval to a proposal from DIAL to allow transit passengers access to the airport lounge. DIAL (Delhi International Airport Ltd.) is the private-led consortium that runs the Delhi airport.
At present, transit passengers flying to the Delhi airport are not allowed to leave the transit lounge no matter how long the waiting time is for a connecting flight. "They remain in the lounge and all they have access to is a stall which serves tea and snacks," said a DIAL official on condition of anonymity.
DIAL had been pushing the proposal to allow passengers access to the lounge for a long time and had cited the example of airports across the world where the movement of transit passengers is not restricted.
"This move brings India in line with other rivals, most notably in the Middle East and the Far East, and if India aims to snare more international traffic through its hubs, it has to change the way it deals with and caters to its customers. This is definitely a step in the right direction for all parties," said Saj Ahmad, London-based aviation analyst from FBE Aerospace.
"Once the government clearance is obtained, we will start issuing transit passes," the official said.
"By allowing passengers to enjoy the terminal's facilities, the propensity for customers to spend will drive up revenue and expand new business opportunities inside the airport itself. Why there were restrictions on passengers who have already cleared security checks is not quite clear. However, the rule change will likely see more passengers use the terminal shops and other features while they wait for their flights," Ahmad said.
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