Madina airport authorities are putting the final details on a new system to prevent overcrowding at departure terminals. The plan will be put to the test in the next few hours as thousands of pilgrims arrive at Prince Muhammad Bin Abdul Aziz International Airport. Authorities know that just one flight delay could have a domino effect and leave thousands of passengers stranded. An airport spokesman told Okaz/Saudi Gazette: “We are using computers, smart phones and walkie-talkies to guide the flow of pilgrims from their residences right up to their arrival at the airport.” A joint operations room has also been set up which will be staffed with Ministry of Haj representatives and specialist technical teams from Prince Muhammad Bin Abdul Aziz International Airport. Airport Director General Engineer Abdul Fattah Bin Muhammad Ata, said: “The joint operations room will manage the departure of pilgrims down to the second. We will manage their arrival perfectly and ensure that they have ample time before their flight takes off.” He said: “We'll work with the Ministry of Haj to prevent pilgrims lingering in the departure terminal which leads to overcrowding and chaos for our staff and supervisors.” Under the plan authorities will be well informed on pilgrim flow down to the minute they are due at the airport. Ministry of Haj officials will also be kept up-to-date on all the days' scheduled flights. To ensure there is no delay, workers will be assigned to unload and weigh each piece of luggage. The journey time from the residence of pilgrims to the airport has also been cut in half and authorities are hoping this will give them an edge in managing the crowds. __
