Bangladesh’s National Civil Aviation Security Committee discussed tighter entry controls at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at its first meeting after reconstitution on 6 August.
The meeting was held at the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh headquarters and focused on strengthening and coordinating civil aviation security.
CAAB spokesperson Kawsar Mahmud confirmed that the entry-control issue was discussed.
The committee recommended instructing the Airport Armed Police Battalion and other law-enforcement agencies to verify the identity and travel information of passengers and people seeking entry.
It also recommended considering entry for up to two visitors accompanying each passenger after verification of required documents.
The meeting resolved to take necessary steps toward implementation, but no start date or final entry procedure was specified.
Committee members discussed stronger intelligence sharing, implementation of the national civil aviation security programme, and alignment with International Civil Aviation Organization security standards.
They also considered adding modern security equipment and reviewing existing policies to address future security challenges.
Preparations for an ICAO audit scheduled in Bangladesh from 26 October to 6 November were discussed, with emphasis on cooperation among immigration, customs and relevant ministries.
Of five under-vehicle scanning systems installed at important entry points, three were operational and two had been out of service for an extended period.
The committee recommended repairing or replacing the two non-operational scanners and using under-vehicle inspection mirrors at those points in the interim.
It further called for stronger security arrangements at VIP and CIP lounges and adherence to prescribed screening protocols.
For all civil airports, the committee stressed contingency and crisis-management arrangements with relevant agencies, including agreements on emergency support.