King orders immediate measures to rid airport of bureaucracy

09 July 2007
Amman , Jordan

His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday said he was dissatisfied with bureaucratic procedures at the Queen Alia International Airport, and ordered measures to facilitate traveler movement and comfort.

“This is not the first time I have visited the airport. Every time we take measures to facilitate procedures for travelers, we return to find the same obstacles again,” King Abdullah told officials at the airport during a visit.

“Some procedures are unjustified and create obstacles, although they can be solved through simple and immediate decisions.”

King Abdullah said that airport authorities should agree on the creation of one body that would take charge of “solving all the problems as soon as possible".

“Facilitating travel procedures will highlight Jordan's bright image, because the airport is the country's main gate, and the first stop of those taking full advantage of the tourist season,” the King said, as he toured the airport.

“Although the passenger terminal does not meet the actual needs it was built for, it is possible to make it easy on people," the King said. "It does not make sense that travelers must undergo a process that can be shortened.”

The practice of granting permits to select officials and individuals to receive and bid farewell to travelers at airline gates is one that should be stopped, he added.

King Abdullah ordered officials to simplify procedures and increase the number of workers, metal detectors and luggage trolleys. He also called for cooperation with a consortium of companies which is expected to begin expanding the airport.