CJIA commits to respectful screening of passengers

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation (CJIAC) on Saturday said it’s committed to maintaining the highest standards of aviation security while ensuring that all passengers, including persons with disabilities, are treated with courtesy and professionalism.

The airport’s statement came shortly after a passenger, Zaid Khan, complained via a local media outlet of having to remove his pants and prosthetic leg in a private room at the CJIA after being asked to do so by an employee manning the scanners. The incident occurred on June 17 as Khan, a United States (US) citizen, and his elderly Guyanese parents were about to board their flight.

The CJIA said in keeping with the National Civil Aviation Security Programme, additional screening is mandatory whenever an alert is generated or an anomaly is detected at the initial screening checkpoint. “These procedures are implemented not only to ensure that any necessary follow-up screening is conducted in a manner that respects passengers’ privacy, but primarily to safeguard all airport users,” the statement highlighted.

To resolve such security alerts while prioritising passenger safety, standard operating procedures require that passengers be offered two distinct options. Firstly, CJIA said passengers may choose to be screened privately in a dedicated screening room, should they wish to clear the anomaly in a more private setting, or they may select to remain at the main screening area and undergo secondary screening, using a specialised screening machine.

However, it noted that “at no time is the removal of a prosthetic device mandatory.”

Passengers are encouraged to share any complaints or concerns directly with airport management should any member of staff deviate from established procedures.

“All reported incidents will be investigated to ensure accountability where procedure has been breached,” passengers were assured.

To submit feedback, register a complaint, or speak directly with a representative, passengers are asked to contact CJIAC’s Customer Relations Unit through the following official channels:

Cheddi Jagan International Airport Corporation
Address: Timehri, East Bank Demerara, Guyana

Telephone: +592 261-2281 / +592 261-4347

WhatsApp Support: +592 600-7022 / +592 699-9074

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.cjairport-gy.com