Surat: The long-awaited In-Line Baggage Handling and Scanning System (ILBHS) has been commissioned at Surat International Airport, bringing major relief to air travelers. The facility was inaugurated on Wednesday by Ajay Bhardwaj, CEO of AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Limited (AAICLAS).

The ILBHS integrates baggage screening with the check-in conveyor system, automating the entire process of security scanning and baggage transfer to the aircraft. With this system, passengers will no longer have to queue separately for X-ray screening before check-in. Instead, their luggage will be automatically scanned and transported to the respective flight through a series of conveyor belts and security systems.

Officials said the new facility will significantly enhance efficiency, passenger convenience, and airport security standards. The system, already in use at major international airports across India, marks a major upgrade for Surat Airport, aligning it with national and global standards.

Industry representatives seek international cargo operations

During Bhardwaj’s visit, an important meeting was convened by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI), where Chamber President Nikhil Madrasi raised the long-standing demand for starting international cargo services from Surat Airport.

He highlighted that diamonds, jewellery, and shrimp from Surat are currently exported via Mumbai, and direct cargo operations from Surat would save time and costs while boosting export volumes.

Representatives from the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) added that around 1,000 tonnes of vegetables and fruits are exported from Surat to Mumbai each month. They assured that if international cargo facilities are introduced at Surat Airport, they could directly export the same volume from Surat itself every month.

The demand underscores the growing importance of Surat as a global export hub and the need for matching airport infrastructure to support its expanding trade network.