PESHAWAR:
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) officials said on Wednesday via a message posted on Twitter that Qatar Airways has resumed operation from Peshawar’s Bacha Khan International Airport (BKIA), while Emirates and Etihad Airways may take up to a week to restart services from the city.
Sources told The Express Tribune that the services are due to commence as armed forces are likely to take over management of security at the Peshawar airport.
“We had an unfortunate incident which led to the suspension of operations by international airlines from BKIA but I am sure we will have them back soon,” said a CAA official, requesting anonymity.
A Pakistan International Airlines flight came under fire on June 24 moments before touchdown at the BKIA. The CAA official said authorities had been meeting with the relevant department regarding foolproof security arrangements for international airlines in order to avoid a similar attack.
According to official sources, the possibility of handing over the airport security and checks in adjacent areas to the armed forces is being discussed. “Law enforcement agencies have already combed the areas adjacent to the airport but they will keep a close eye on these areas on a permanent basis,” said a CAA official.
Security at the airport has been beefed up and anyone seeking entrance to the airport is thoroughly checked, while checkpoints around the airport have increased.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 3rd, 2014.
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