The biometric scanning that has been implemented at Hosea Kutako International Airport (HKIA) in Namibia has caused flight delays since Friday.

Nadja Wagner from Tracks and Trails confirmed the delays, and said that the Tour and Safari Association of Namibia (TASA) had informed members, warning them of the disruptions.

Denitza Petrova from TASA said they were informed that there were major delays at departures as well as arrivals.

“TASA is in communication with Namibia Airports Company (NAC) on what can be done to speed up this process and clear the delays, and how we can assist them,” said Petrova.

TASA told members to advise employees and clients that major delays were expected at HKIA, at departures and arrivals.

“The Ministry of Home Affairs in Namibia has implemented a new biometric system at the airport to replace the outdated system and improve overall border security,” said Nankelo Amupadhi, Corporate Communications Officer for NAC.  

“As with any new system, there are a few hiccups and adjustments, resulting in delays through the security clearance for some of the flights operating out of Hosea Kutako International Airport,” said Amupadhi.

Amupadhi advised that NAC, along with the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Namibian Police, ground handlers and all stakeholders were working together to try and improve the situation, and were trying their best to accommodate passengers. “We apologise for any inconvenience caused and we ask the travelling public to bear with us during this transition stage.”