Friday 15 / November / 2024
Muscat: Oman airports will provide free cardboard packing cases for those passengers who bring the wrong baggage to airports, the management has announced.
In the first weeks after a new baggage ban kicks in on September 1, complementary boxes will be given to passengers who turn up with non-compliant luggage.
Effective September 1, passengers will no longer be allowed to check in round and irregular shaped luggage items wrapped in blankets, linen or tied with rope at Muscat International, Salalah and Sohar airports.
This change is applicable to all passengers regardless of airline, cabin class or destination.
Speaking to Times of Oman, an official of the Oman Airport Management Company (OAMC), said: “We have anticipated that some travellers might face difficulties with their luggage in light of the new policy.
“In order to facilitate a smoother and hassle-free travelling experience for all passengers, especially during the first weeks of implementation, we have put plans in place to provide complementary boxes for repacking purposes.”
The official added: “OAMC is committed to adopt best global practices and policies that will increase the effectiveness and efficiency of its operations and provide a holistic experience for travellers using Oman’s major airports.”
Welcoming the decision, Wasim Zaidi, General Manager - Oman, Jet Airways, said: “It is a great decision as there will be problems as most of the people will be unaware of the new rules. But later, when people will get used to it, the check-in process will be much quicker and smoother.”
Airline officials say passengers who show up at the airport with non-compliant baggage will be given an option to have it repacked in boxes. “If they repack it, then their luggage will be loaded in the flight,” a senior official of another airline said.
For travellers, the new policy will result in faster pickups, less baggage jams, and an overall smoother and hassle-free experience. “For airport personnel, it will ensure the safety and security, efficient check-ins and seamless access to checked baggage in case of further security screening,” the OAMC said. “We are telling travellers, ‘If the bag doesn’t lie flat, then consider repacking using appropriate suitcases and travel bags’ Baby strollers, bicycles, wheelchairs, golf bags will still be permitted.”
“If they are going to repack it for free, then it is fine, otherwise it will be too expensive to repack and my other concern is that the boxes will not be strong enough for the flight,” said one blue collar worker.
“We always pack with blankets as then there is no fear of our goods getting damaged,” the worker said, adding: “What happens if someone can’t afford to pay for the repacking when the free period ends? Will they have to leave their stuff behind? That seems unfair to me.”
Meanwhile airlines and travel operators in Oman have started informing customers of the new baggage rules which will come into force in less than 10 days time.
