RAWALPINDI: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has decided to install baggage wrapping machines at major airports of the country, apparently to protect luggage from being damaged.

A senior official of CAA told Dawn that baggage wrapping machines will be installed at Jinnah International Airport, Karachi, Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore, Faisalabad International Airport, Bacha Khan International Airport, Peshawar, Sukkur Airport, Multan International Airport and Quetta International Airport.

At Islamabad International Airport, baggage wrapping machine had already been installed at the international departure lounge’s briefing area.

The wrapping machines are expected to be installed at seven airports across the country within one month.

A senior security official told Dawn that baggage wrapping did not make any difference with the security but it ensured safety of the suitcases or other luggage which are damaged during loading and unloading.

He further said the wrapped suitcase made difficult for baggage handler to riffle through it.

However, the security officials can open wrapped bag, whenever is required.

He said wrapping of travelers’ luggage also ensured that it was protected from rough handling and thefts of valuables by riffling through.

Published in Dawn, June 20th, 2019