“No one will be spread if they disrupt security,” he said at a fire extinguishing drill at Chattogram’s Shah Amanat International Airport, according to a Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry press release.

He reminded the staff that the country’s image is related to the security of its airports.

 There was an attempt to hijack a plane of national flag carrier in February at Chattogram airport. There have also been instances of people entering the Dhaka airport with undeclared firearm and bullets.

The UK in 2016 imposed a ban on direct cargo flights from Dhaka to London after Biman failed to pass the safety and security tests. It withdrew the ban in February last year.

A member of Ansar force was killed and four others were wounded in a knife attack at Dhaka airport on November 6, 2016.

The government has since ratcheted up security at the airports.

‘Serving the passengers’

Ali reminded the staff that providing services to people and ensuring that passengers are not harassed at the airport were their main duties.

Many passengers, particularly expatriates, have brought allegations of harassment against the airport staff. In February, the state minister for expatriates welfare and overseas employment warned that airport officials will face tough actions if they harass expatriates.

Ali also warned the staff that “stern action” will be taken against those to be found involved in corruption.

He said the government has taken many projects for the development of Shah Amanat International Airport and plans to construct a link road from Chattogram city to airport.