Dhaka Airport conducts full-scale emergency drill to test fire response
The exercise simulated a
passenger aircraft arriving from Bangkok with 98 passengers and five crew
members. Shortly before landing, the aircraft reportedly notified air traffic
control of an engine fire. During the simulated emergency landing, it veered
off the runway, crossed Taxiway Sierra and stopped south of the runway before a
fire spread through the aircraft.
Airport fire crews,
rescue teams, security agencies and medical providers then carried out
simulated firefighting, passenger evacuation, first aid and emergency
management operations.
The exercise was
organized in line with International Civil Aviation Organization guidance and
Bangladesh’s National Civil Aviation Security Program, which require periodic
emergency drills at airports.
Civil Aviation and
Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, who observed the exercise, said
emergency preparedness and fire safety are essential to maintaining a secure
aviation hub. He also highlighted the need to comply with requirements ahead of
an upcoming ICAO audit.
Millat said authorities
are considering an anti-drone system for the airport and stressed the
importance of maintaining adequate stocks of security equipment and scanners.
CAAB Chairman Air Vice
Marshal Md. Mostafa Mahmood Siddiqi said regular training and practical
exercises are essential for improving emergency coordination and response
capabilities.
