The first meeting of the reconstituted National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC) was held on Thursday at the headquarters of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) with the aim of strengthening the country’s civil aviation security system and bringing it in line with international standards.

The meeting was chaired by Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, MP, while State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat attended as the committee’s vice-chairperson.

Addressing the meeting, Minister Afroza Khanam directed the authorities to ensure the swift implementation of the decisions taken at the committee’s 13th meeting. She noted that Bangladesh will soon undergo a security audit by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and stressed that the country’s international reputation is closely tied to the audit outcome.

She instructed the relevant agencies to ensure full compliance with ICAO standards in all areas that may come under review.

The minister also emphasized that airport security protocols must apply equally to everyone, including VIPs and CIPs, and said all passengers should be subject to the same security procedures. She urged all stakeholders to work together to improve passenger services, particularly for Bangladeshi expatriates.

State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat said the government would take steps to install an anti-drone system to prevent unauthorized drone operations around airport areas. He noted that the meeting was being held after nearly three years and stressed the importance of ensuring the effective implementation of its decisions.

He also said airports should maintain more than the minimum required number of security equipment and scanners and instructed law enforcement agencies to take strict action against any violations of security regulations.

The meeting discussed a range of issues aimed at making Bangladesh’s civil aviation security system more effective, coordinated, and compliant with international standards. Discussions focused on strengthening intelligence-sharing among agencies to address potential security threats, implementing the National Civil Aviation Security Programme, ensuring compliance with ICAO security standards, introducing modern security technologies and equipment at airports, reviewing existing security policies, and adopting strategic measures to address future security challenges.

Participants also emphasized the need to strengthen security at the entrance of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, improve the effectiveness of the Under Vehicle Scanning System (UVSS) installed at key entry points, and sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with relevant ministries and agencies to enhance contingency and crisis management at all civil airports across the country.

The meeting further stressed the need for coordinated efforts by CAAB, the Airport Armed Police Battalion (APBn), Bangladesh Police, Ansar, and airport magistrates to address traffic congestion, uncontrolled crowds, begging, and illegal luggage-wrapping activities in the landside area of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Participants also recommended taking legal action where necessary to improve passenger services, maintain order, and enhance overall airport security.