In a significant move, foreign airlines operating in India can now hire airport operators for security services, a task previously reserved for domestic airline staff. This decision by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) aims to increase competition and minimize the risks of service disruptions in India’s aviation sector.
Opening Up Competition for Security Services
Earlier, only domestic airlines like SpiceJet and Air India were responsible for security tasks such as aircraft security checks and secondary passenger frisking. The recent BCAS circular has relaxed these norms, allowing foreign airlines to hire airport staff for security functions, thus expanding the pool of service providers.
Addressing SpiceJet’s Financial Crisis
The change comes amid financial concerns with SpiceJet, which took over many foreign airline security contracts following the closure of Jet Airways in 2019. Recent salary delays and attrition issues have raised fears of potential disruptions, pushing for broader competition in the security services market.
Expanding the Security Provider Pool
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) had earlier highlighted the limitations of having few security providers, urging BCAS to expand the pool. The inclusion of airport operators will not only diversify the market but also improve the quality of services, benefitting the 80 foreign airlines operating scheduled flights to India.
Restrictions and Ongoing Discussions
Airports with significant foreign holdings, such as Bengaluru’s Fairfax-owned airport, will not be allowed to provide security services. However, major airport operators like GMR, running Delhi, Hyderabad, and Goa airports, are already planning to offer these services, with discussions underway with foreign airlines.
Conclusion
This BCAS decision marks a crucial shift in how foreign airlines manage their security needs in India. By allowing airport operators to handle security tasks, the Indian aviation sector is set to experience reduced service disruptions, improved efficiency, and increased competition in security services.