Bengaluru Airport Conducts Extensive Anti-Hijack Drill, Strengthens Security and Emergency Response Preparedness

The National Security Guard (NSG) successfully executed a comprehensive anti-hijack drill at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) on the night of June 24th.

The exercise, which ran from 8 pm to midnight, demonstrated the airport's unwavering commitment to passenger safety and security.

The drill simulated a hijacked aircraft landing at BLR Airport, activating the Aerodrome Emergency Management Committee (AEMC) and setting in motion a series of carefullyplanned response protocols.

Trained negotiators engaged with the simulated hijackers to achieve a peaceful resolution. The NSG was prepared to intervene in case negotiations failed, ensuring swift containment of the threat with minimal impact and prioritizing passenger safety.

Key Highlights of the Drill​

• Scenario-Based Training: The drill featured multiple scenarios to assess and improve tactical readiness in various critical situations.
• Advanced Technology: Real-time communication systems and sophisticated surveillance equipment were utilized to enhance security and response effectiveness.
• Collaborative Approach: Key stakeholders, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), CISF, ground handling agencies, city hospitals, the Indian Air Force (IAF), local police, Air Traffic Services Control (ATC), Fire and Emergency Services, and various community organizations, collaborated in the exercise.
• Passenger Safety Focus: The drill emphasized the importance of minimizing collateral damage and prioritizing the safety of passengers and staff throughout the response process.

Hari Marar, Managing Director & CEO of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), underscored the significance of the drill, stating, "Conducting this real-time simulated anti-hijack drill is a pivotal step in fortifying security preparedness at BLR Airport. It enables us to rigorously test our response protocols, enhance inter-departmental coordination, and ensure preparedness for real-life scenarios."

Following the exercise, BLR Airport will conduct a detailed debriefing to gather insights and recommendations for further improvement. The findings will be used to refine emergency response protocols, communication frameworks, and stakeholder collaboration, solidifying the airport's commitment to safety and preparedness.

This drill aligns with BLR Airport's continuous efforts to enhance security measures and emergency response capabilities in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and DGCA regulations, ensuring a secure environment for all airport users.

The ICAO, a specialized agency of the United Nations, develops standards and recommended practices for international civil aviation, including Annex 17, which specifically addresses security measures to protect civil aviation against acts of unlawful interference. BLR Airport's anti-hijack drill demonstrates its adherence to these international standards and best practices.