Sheikh Md. Belayet Hossain, Staff Reporter || Dhaka, Bangladesh- The government has decided to reduce the deployment of Bangladesh Air Force personnel at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and gradually return the leadership of airport security operations to civilian agencies.Under the “In Aid to Civil Power” arrangement, around 1,450 Air Force members currently deployed at the airport will be reduced in phases. Initially, half of the personnel will be withdrawn, followed by a further reduction of one-third of the remaining members after reviewing the situation.The decision was taken at the first meeting of the reconstituted National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC) held at the headquarters of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) on Thursday. The committee meeting was held after nearly three years.The meeting decided that CAAB’s Aviation Security (AVSEC), Airport Armed Police Battalion (APBn), and other law enforcement agencies will be strengthened to handle regular security operations. During normal situations, civilian agencies will lead airport security, law enforcement and administrative activities.Aviation expert Kazi Wahidul Alam said the armed forces play an important role during crises, but long-term security management of international airports should remain with civilian aviation security agencies and specialised units.“Clear accountability and command structures are necessary for effective airport management. Multiple agencies exercising authority simultaneously can create confusion in decision-making,” he said.Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Ritu said the decision was aimed at ensuring better coordination among all security agencies.“An imbalance where one agency has more presence than others will be addressed. This is a continuous process, and further discussions will be held with all stakeholders,” she said.The Air Force took charge of airport security after Ansar members went on strike following the political change on August 5, 2024. Later, disagreements emerged between the Air Force and APBn over security, law enforcement and administrative authority at the airport.The issue eventually reached the court.According to the latest decision, the government will keep the option of seeking assistance from the Air Force and other armed forces during major security threats or national emergencies. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) is also being considered to establish a clear mechanism for such support.Officials said the move would ensure civilian control over airport operations while keeping military assistance available during emergency situations.