A full-scale anti-hijack mock exercise was conducted at Kannur International Airport on Wednesday to test the readiness of emergency response systems and coordination among security agencies.
The drill, involving an Air India aircraft, commenced around 11.20 a.m. and concluded by noon with Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel successfully neutralising ‘hijackers’ while ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew on board, said a press release.
The aerodrome committee, chaired by Sub Collector Karthik Panigrahi, met immediately at the air traffic control tower upon receiving the simulated hijack alert. The exercise assessed the airport’s capability to respond to real-time hijack scenarios and reviewed procedures for managing such crises including situations where a hijacked aircraft lands at the airport.
Mr. Panigrahi termed the exercise a success. Kannur International Airport Limited (KIAL) chief operating officer Ashwani Kumar served as the convener of the drill, which is conducted annually in line with Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) guidelines.
Key officials and agencies involved included chief aerodrome security officer Nitin Tyagi, chief security officer P. Satheesh Babu, and Assistant Commissioner of Police K.V. Pramodhan.
Published – July 03, 2025 01:19 am IST
