Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Dec 1, 2025 (BSS) - A full-scale airport security exercise was conducted today at Shah Makhdum Airport in Rajshahi to assess emergency response capabilities and strengthen inter-agency coordination in line with ICAO and national aviation security standards.

The drill, titled "Airport Security Exercise 2025", simulated a bomb threat on a chartered flight originating from Jashore, said a press release of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) here.  

After an anonymous caller warned the control tower of an explosive on board, the Airport Manager activated the Emergency Operations Center following consultation with the Risk Advisory Group, triggering coordinated emergency response measures.

The exercise involved CAAB, Bangladesh Army, RAB, Rajshahi Metropolitan Police, APBn, Ansar, Rajshahi Medical College, Islami Medical College Hospital, and the Fire Service and Civil Defence, among other agencies. Participating teams practiced surveillance, evacuation, coordination and field-level crisis response operations.

CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq attended as Chief Guest and observed the drill. 

He thanked all agencies for their participation, saying such exercises not only help detect operational gaps but also "enhance effective coordination to ensure international standards in aviation security and passenger service." 

He commended the collective effort and expressed confidence that the experience gained would enable faster and more efficient handling of any unforeseen situation.

Air Commodore Md Asif Iqbal, Member (Security) of CAAB, served as Chief Coordinator, while Airport Manager Dilara Pervin acted as On-Scene Commander.

The CAAB Chairman praised the professionalism and preparedness displayed by all participating agencies and urged them to continue fulfilling their responsibilities with sincerity, dedication and national commitment.

CAAB Member (Administration) S M Lablur Rahman, Member (Finance) Mohammad Nazmul Haque, senior officials, representatives from participating organisations and media personnel were also present.