The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has completed nearly 80 percent of its preparations for two major international aviation security audits by the United Kingdom's Department for Transport (DFT) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). These audits will assess Bangladesh's compliance with international aviation security standards, which are crucial for enhancing the country's standing in the global aviation sector.
DFT Security Audit Details
The DFT security audit will be conducted from July 14 to 17, focusing on security arrangements for passengers and cargo bound for the United Kingdom from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) and Osmani International Airport. Bangladesh achieved 100 percent compliance in cargo security and 93-94 percent compliance in passenger security in the latest DFT assessment.
ICAO Audit Schedule and Scope
The ICAO Universal Security Audit Programme – Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) is scheduled for October 26 to November 6. During the audit, ICAO experts will assess aviation security management and implementation at the CAAB headquarters, HSIA, and Osmani International Airport. Bangladesh scored 68.55 percent in ICAO's 2018 security audit, surpassing the then international benchmark of 65 percent. The authority is targeting a score of more than 75 percent in this year's audit.
Preparation and Oversight
The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism is closely supervising the preparations. Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanom Rita and State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat are regularly reviewing progress and providing necessary directives. Coordination meetings are being held periodically to evaluate preparedness and address outstanding issues.
Infrastructure and Equipment Upgrades
As part of efforts to strengthen airport security infrastructure, Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) of advanced X-ray machines, modern scanners, and other security equipment have been completed successfully. The equipment is expected to arrive in August and will be installed in phases by September 1. CAAB will also conduct an internal pre-audit in the first week of October to identify and rectify any remaining shortcomings before the ICAO assessment.
Significance and Expectations
CAAB officials expressed confidence that the ongoing preparations, combined with the installation of modern security equipment and close high-level monitoring, would help Bangladesh achieve improved results in both audits. This would further enhance the international reputation of the country's airports and strengthen its position in the global aviation security framework.
