AAJ Urges Vigilance During Busy Holiday Travel Period

As passenger traffic increases during the busy holiday travel period, the Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) is reminding travellers to remain vigilant and prepared when using the nation’s airports.

Speaking at a recent JIS Think Tank, Aerodromes Manager at the AAJ, Claude Service, urged passengers to arrive early and to take personal responsibility for their safety and security throughout their journey.

“When travelling, please try to abide by the three-hour requirement to be at the airport for processing,” Mr. Service advised, while pointing out that things may happen along the journey to the airport that could cut into that time.

“It puts unnecessary pressure on you, the traveller, and also on airline personnel who are trying to accommodate passengers within a very short window of time,” he added.

Mr. Service also emphasised the importance of properly securing valuables before leaving home.

“It is best to keep these items in your cabin baggage rather than your checked luggage as they are more secure while in your possession, and so we encourage persons to have valuables within the cabin,” he said.

Once at the airport, travellers are being urged to monitor their luggage at all times.

“When you get to the airport, it is important that you keep your luggage as close to you as possible. It minimises the possibility that it can be switched, swapped, tampered with or stolen,” Mr. Service explained, adding that luggage left unattended is considered a serious security and safety risk.

The Aerodromes Manager cautioned passengers to be alert to distractions, especially in crowded airport spaces. “Persons with ill intent may create scenarios that cause distraction, to switch a bag, put something in a bag, or catch travellers off guard, and you need to be very mindful of that,” he warned.

Mr. Service also advised passengers to protect their personal information and only accept assistance from authorised personnel.

“Minimise the private information you give publicly, and if you must provide it, do so quietly and only accept assistance from persons in uniform, airline personnel or uniformed airport staff,” he said.

“Keep your passport and wallet very secure, preferably in a front pocket, waistband bag, or a handbag tucked neatly under your arm,” Mr. Service added.

The Aerodromes Manager highlighted an important area where vigilance is critical, and this is at security screening points.

“You need to always be watching your luggage when it is being screened. When it goes through the X-ray machine, keep a visual on it, because that is a point where items can go missing, intentionally or unintentionally,” Mr. Service stated.

To reduce delays, he recommends preparing for screening in advance.

“We know coats and belts must be removed. Do that before reaching the screening point. It allows the process to move more quickly and helps you re-engage with your luggage immediately after screening”, he said.

The AAJ representative issued a strong warning against carrying items for others.

“Do not, I repeat, do not accept anything from anyone to take through the screening process. You may feel sympathy for someone but be more concerned about your own safety and security.

Allow persons to process their own items,” the Aerodromes Manager urged.

Mr. Service also encouraged the use of electronic payments instead of cash.

“We are recommending the use of cards versus cash. It is much safer, and most airlines actually prefer card payments. Displaying large amounts of cash can attract unnecessary attention,” he warned.

Beyond passenger precautions, Mr. Service assured the public that the AAJ works closely with security partners to ensure safe airport operations.

“We work very closely with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Jamaica Customs Agency, Ports Security Corps, airline partners and other stakeholders,” he said.

“When security matters arise, we address them discreetly to maintain calm and stability within airport operations,” the Aerodromes Manager explained.