Islamabad, Pakistan (CU)_ As a security measure, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) has prohibited low-level employees like porters, assistants, and loaders from using smartphones at the Islamabad International Airport premises. However, employees are allowed to use ordinary phones with simple keypads inside the airport.
According to the recent directive from the airport administration, it was noted with considerable worry that these employees were using smartphones openly and without limitation, which may result in an unwanted incident. It was stated that taking photographs or videos of the airport’s sensitive areas and sharing them on TikTok or other social media platforms was not a good idea from a security standpoint, and that criminals or smugglers could induce these employees to carry out their nefarious plans or commit illegal acts.
The airport administration stated that it had been ordered by the PCAA to prohibit low-level employees from carrying or using smartphones at the airport and instead urge them to use mobile phones with a simple keypad in order to prevent any unpleasant incidents at the airport. Additionally, the airport administration instructed the division heads of agencies and airlines operating at the airport to ensure strict compliance in this respect.
A top official at the airport stated that the employees were worried about the prohibition on the use of smartphones, stating that it would hinder their productivity and lead to conflicts with security personnel. Previously, the airport management identified some security issues during a security audit conducted earlier this year and requested that the Rawalpindi district administration take the necessary steps to ensure the airport’s safety and security.
