Manama: In a move to beat the summer holiday rush, Doha International Airport has reinforced guidelines that include allowing only travelling passengers into the departure terminal to avoid check-in hall congestion.
The authorities said that compliance with the strict measures on airport access, baggage and check-in would make the passengers' trip "as smooth as possible."
Under the reinforcement, no individual piece of checked baggage exceeding 32kg will be accepted.
Passengers must ensure each item of checked baggage is kept below 32kg before arriving at the airport, otherwise they will be asked to repack them or items will not be accepted, airport authorities said.
All checked baggage must be X-ray screened at the entry point to the departure terminal before passengers proceed to the check-in area.
Individual pieces of hand baggage must not exceed 7kg and kept within the ‘55cm x 38cm x 20cm’ dimension guidelines. Any liquids, gels or aerosols being carried in hand baggage must be in bottles of no-more than 100ml each, otherwise these will be confiscated at the security check point.
Passengers are also advised to seal these items in transparent plastic bags measuring no more than ‘20cm x 20cm’ before placing them in their hand baggage. Plastic reusable bags are available at the airport, in case passengers require them.
Doha International Airport chief executive officer Akbar Al Baker said the measures were being reinforced for safety and security reasons and in the interests of all passengers.
“We are entering the busy summer holiday season and it is important for travellers to be responsible and understanding of the procedures in place to make their travel experience as safe and comfortable as possible from the moment they arrive at the airport,” Al Baker said, quoted by Qatari daily Gulf Times.
“We urge passengers travelling out of Doha International Airport to adhere to the strict guidelines to avoid unnecessary congestion and delays. Overweight baggage is a safety concern for our baggage handlers, hence the importance for all passengers to keep within the controlled limitations. Travelling can be a stressful experience, but we want to ensure it is as smooth as possible and hassle free for all passengers flying on any airline in and out of Doha International Airport," he said.
