Nedumbassery: The domestic passengers at the Cochin International Airport can now avail the check-in facility three hours before the flight's departure. The new arrangement would come into effect from Tuesday.
Earlier, the domestic check-in counters started functioning only two hours before the departure time. Security guards used to stop people, who turned up early, from proceeding to the check-in area.
The time needed for security checks has increased due to the heightened vigil against terror attacks. This has led to a huge rush at the security hall. There have also been instances of passengers not being able to get to the terminal gates due to this.
This has prompted the CIAL authorities to issue instructions to the airline companies to start the counters early. The authorities have urged the domestic passengers to make use of the facility to avoid the last-minute rush.
However, there is no change in routine for international passengers. They would be required to reach three hours prior to the departure.