Key Points:
- The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued a nationwide security alert through October 2, 2025, following specific intelligence of potential terrorist attacks.
- All Indian airports, airstrips, helipads, flying schools, and training institutes have been ordered to heighten security measures.
- The alert period covers September 22 to October 2, with warnings of threats from Pakistan-based terror groups and anti-social elements.
- Strict ID checks, round-the-clock patrolling, and continuous CCTV monitoring have been mandated for all personnel, contractors, and visitors.
- Airport authorities must coordinate closely with local police, CISF, Intelligence Bureau, and other agencies to share intelligence and respond swiftly.
- Airlines are instructed to screen all domestic and international cargo and mail more rigorously.
- Passengers are being urged to report suspicious activities and unattended items, with regular security announcements and emergency drills planned.
New Delhi: India’s aviation security has been dramatically stepped up across the country after the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued a high alert on August 4, 2025. The move comes after central intelligence agencies warned of a “potential threat” from terrorist organizations and anti-social elements, with the highest risk period designated as September 22 to October 2.
What Are the New Measures?
- Security Blitz: All airports, major airfields, air force stations, helipads, and flying institutes have been ordered to operate under tight security protocols. This includes nonstop patrolling of terminal buildings, car parks, cityside and perimeter zones, and increased use of surveillance cameras.
- Strict Identity Verification: Every employee, contractor, and visitor’s ID will be strictly checked and verified before entering sensitive zones. Unauthorized access is to be reported and prevented immediately.
- Close Coordination: BCAS has instructed directors of all airports to increase cooperation with local police, CISF, IB, and allied agencies. Intelligence sharing is mandatory, and special service committee meetings have been mandated to ensure all stakeholders remain on high alert and are briefed about emerging threats.
- Cargo & Mail Scrutiny: Airlines domestic and international are directed to conduct stricter screening for all cargo and mail, with baggage checks and parcel screenings at especially high levels.
- Passenger Awareness: Ongoing announcements will urge travelers and airport visitors to watch for suspicious objects or behavior and to quickly report anything unusual to security personnel.
Why the Alert?
The advisory is based on specific intelligence inputs related to activities of Pakistan-based terror outfits and follows recent incidents and heightened geopolitical tensions. State police and other responders have also been notified in advance to assist with emergency drills, ensure readiness of response teams, and keep preventive measures active throughout this critical period.
How Does This Affect Passengers?
Travelers should:
- Arrive much earlier than usual due to tightened checks.
- Bring proper identification and cooperate with security and police instructions.
- Be vigilant for any unattended baggage or suspicious activity report immediately.
- Expect more frequent security drills and potentially longer boarding times.
Ongoing Preparedness
The alert remains in force until October 2, 2025, with BCAS and all aviation stakeholders constantly reviewing protocols. Surveillance and security measures will remain at their highest, reflecting the seriousness of the threat. The government has reiterated that this action is purely precautionary, aimed at ensuring public safety across India’s skies.
India’s aviation sector is currently on its highest state of alert, with multi-layered security checks, mass patrolling, and close cooperation between security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies all to neutralize any possible terror threat during a critical period.
