KUWAIT: Passengers travelling through Kuwait International Airport (KIA) will shortly be able to use an automated boarding service that reads the print on their passports electronically in exchange for a token fee , a security official announced yesterday. Maj Gen Ibrahim Al-Rushaid said that the planned automated gate, to be installed shortly, will electronically read the passenger's personal data, thereby expending the travel process and freeing up more customs officers.

All passengers transiting the airport are subject to inspection, including aircraft crew and VIPs, he affirmed. The only individuals exempted from having to submit their documents for inspection are the heads of diplomatic missions, he added, indicating that the airport security authorities have requested that the foreign ministry notify all diplomats that they would be subject to the search measures at the air facility.

The senior security official also revealed that there are plans to expand the facility and increasing the number of security personnel serving at the airport, noting that there are now 70 female security staff working there. Maj. Gen. Al-Rushaid also explained that the airport is currently in the process of arranging the installation of state-of-art equipment for scanning passengers' luggage and other belongings.

The airport security department has already installed a new system for iris identification through photographing staff members' eyes. The airport authorities show the greatest concern at any bomb threat, whether authentic or hoax, he added, underlining the dedication of the security personnel there. Senior security personnel at the airport liaise with their counterparts in other regional states and exchange information about suspicious individuals or items in transit, he revealed.

GCC citizens can continue to present their old or new civil identity cards at the airport, the official said, although he added that those travelling to Saudi Arabia should carry smart cards or passports. Maj. Gen. Al-Rushaid also urged travelers to cooperate with the security authorities and board the aircraft as scheduled to ensure punctual departure. - KUNA