The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has placed all Indian airports on maximum alert until October 2, 2025, following intelligence inputs warning of potential terrorist or anti-social threats.
The advisory, issued by BCAS on August 4, directs heightened security measures across all aviation facilities, including airports, airstrips, helipads, flying schools, and training institutes.
“Recent inputs from central security agencies indicate a potential threat from anti-social elements or terrorist groups,” the BCAS stated, urging enhanced vigilance to “avoid any untoward incident.”
Key Security Measures Implemented
-
Round-the-clock alert: Security personnel will maintain constant high alert status, with intensified patrolling across terminals, parking areas, perimeter zones, and other sensitive points.
-
Passenger advisories: Travelers will be urged to report suspicious activities or unattended luggage, with periodic announcements made at airports. (Image: Vipin Kumar/Hindustan Times)
-
Cityside security: Airports are to coordinate closely with local police to strengthen security in approach roads, parking spaces, and nearby areas.
-
Aircraft and cargo checks: Airlines, both domestic and international, must ensure rigorous screening of cargo and mail before loading on commercial aircraft, with enhanced checks for all parcels and shipments.
-
Access control: Staff, contractors, and visitors will undergo strict ID verification, with unauthorized access immediately denied and reported.
-
CCTV monitoring: All surveillance systems must remain fully operational, with real-time monitoring and prompt response to suspicious behaviour or objects.
Coordination and Drills
BCAS has ordered close coordination among airports, local police, CISF, Intelligence Bureau, and other security agencies, ensuring quick intelligence sharing.
Airport directors must also:
-
Convene special Airline Passenger Service Committee meetings to coordinate precautionary measures.
-
Conduct emergency response reviews, quick drills, and staff briefings to ensure readiness.
-
Oversee compliance through regional BCAS directors, who will hold special security meetings at all airports.
The advisory comes amid an ongoing review of aviation security, including the ‘No Fly List’, which has seen 379 passengers banned in the last five years, and rising passenger grievances highlighting the need for robust protocols.
