Gulstan
Complaint Regarding Unprofessional Treatment During Security Screening at Erbil International Airport
I would like to file a formal complaint regarding an unpleasant experience I had at Erbil International Airport on June 16, 2026, while traveling from Erbil to Denmark. After checking in my luggage, I proceeded to the second security checkpoint. My first bag, weighing approximately 7 kilograms, passed through the scanner without any issue. My handbag also went through the scanner, and I personally passed through the security screening process. I was additionally searched by hand, removed my shoes as requested, and then put them back on. When I attempted to collect my handbag, the last security officer sitting by the conveyor belt took it from me and began searching through it. I was surprised and politely asked why my handbag was being searched, but I received no explanation. The officer proceeded to remove all of my personal belongings, including my iPhone, wallet, cash, and a gift that I had purchased for my daughter. He repeatedly asked, “What is this?” while examining my personal items. What disturbed me most was that he took my wallet, opened it, and went through its contents page by page with his fingers. My wallet contained personal documents and cards, including my Danish identification cards, health card, bank cards, and driver’s license. I am a 56-year-old woman, and throughout my life I have traveled through many international airports. Never before have I experienced a security officer searching through my wallet in such a manner. I found this behavior unnecessary, intrusive, and disrespectful. When I expressed my surprise, the officer responded several times by saying, “If you were in Turkey, they would do worse.” I do not understand why this comparison was made. My concern was not about other countries, but about why I was being treated this way and why my personal belongings were being handled without any explanation or courtesy. In addition to the search itself, I felt uncomfortable because of the officer’s attitude and the way he looked at me. His manner was dismissive and lacked professionalism. After the incident, I left feeling deeply upset, humiliated, and saddened. I respectfully ask the management to review this incident and ensure that security staff are trained to treat passengers with professionalism, respect, and kindness. Passengers use these airlines and airport services because they trust them and are proud to support them. As Kurdish travelers, we are proud of our airlines and our airport, and we want them to represent the highest standards of customer service and respect. Unfortunately, my experience on that day did not reflect those standards. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I hope appropriate action will be taken to improve the treatment of passengers in the future.



