Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Aug 21, 2025 (BSS) – A full-scale security exercise was conducted at Saidpur Airport today to assess preparedness in handling potential threats such as hijacking and bomb attacks and to strengthen inter-agency coordination.

The drill simulated a bomb threat on a Dhaka-bound flight, prompting the declaration of a full emergency and activation of the Emergency Operations Center, said a press release here this evening. 

Organized in line with Annex-17 Standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the exercise is held every two years as a mandatory requirement. 

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), Bangladesh Air Force, Bangladesh Army, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Bangladesh Police, Armed Police Battalion (APBn), Ansar, Air Astra Limited, Fire Service and Civil Defence, and Saidpur 100-bed Hospital were among the organizations that took part during the exercise. 

CAAB chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq attended the event as the Chief Guest while CAAB Member (Security) Air Commodore Md Asif Iqbal acted as Chief Coordinator. 

In his remarks, the CAAB Chairman thanked all stakeholders for their participation, noting that such drills help identify weaknesses while ensuring international-standard safety for passengers through effective coordination.

Highlighting ongoing development work at Saidpur Airport, the CAAB chief said nearly 70 percent of the runway overlay has been completed, a new apron has been constructed, and 12,000 feet of perimeter road finished, with the remainder under progress. 

These improvements, he added, will enhance passenger comfort and strengthen both domestic and international connectivity.

CAAB Member (Operations and Planning) Air Commodor Abu Sayeed Mehboob Khan was also present.