Launch preparations in full swing: BAC CEO

All airlines operating out of Bahrain International Airport (BIA) are expected to be fully prepared and ready for the launch of the new Passenger Terminal Building in the first quarter of 2020, said BAC CEO. Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah said the ongoing trials at the new facility are part of the national Operations Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) programme.

“These are designed to progressively test the new facility’s functions, systems, and procedures to ensure they are ready for the transition phase.” The Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) Chief Executive Officer was holding a meeting of senior airline representatives.

Al Binfalah highlighted the importance of the trials, saying: “The new Passenger Terminal Building’s advanced systems, equipment and communications technologies require considerable training and familiarity to operate.”

“All stakeholders must have an in-depth understanding of how these systems work in an integrated operational environment. “The trials will assist all the participating stakeholders to be adequately trained and ensure that BIA continues to operate in line with global aviation standards.” He also called on to greater effort as there are just a few months to until the inauguration of the new terminal.

The ORAT process is split into three phases, pre-trials, basic trials, and advanced trials. The advanced trials will see public volunteers playing the role of passengers to put the new terminal’s advanced systems, processes, and procedures put to the test and helping to identify any areas for improvement ahead of its inauguration.