Acting Director General of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Duaij Al-Otaibi, affirmed that Kuwait International Airport is safe and fully prepared to resume complete operations once approval is granted by the relevant authorities.

He stressed that passenger safety and the protection of lives and property remain the top priority across all operational procedures.

In remarks to the Kuwait News Agency on Monday, Al-Otaibi explained that current security measures are precautionary and designed to ensure the highest levels of protection, despite any inconvenience they may cause. He emphasized that these steps are essential to safeguarding passengers and airport assets.

He noted that the airport is steadily moving toward restoring operations to the levels seen prior to the recent Iranian aggression, with ongoing improvements in performance and operational efficiency. Passenger movement is being carefully organized to ensure smooth access from parking areas to terminals.

Al-Otaibi added that, for security reasons, aircraft boarding gates are temporarily not in use, with passengers instead transported by buses. The possibility of reinstating the previous system is under review and will be considered following further evaluation.

Special arrangements have been introduced for the elderly and people with disabilities, including electric wheelchairs and elevators to facilitate easier mobility within the airport.

He also indicated that the main terminal gate is expected to reopen in the coming days after coordination with key authorities, particularly the Ministry of Interior and the General Fire Force.

He highlighted that these measures are part of a broader plan aimed at achieving maximum safety, alongside weekly assessments of operational conditions to support a gradual return to normal services.

Al-Otaibi revealed that the airport’s control tower, one of the most advanced globally, was targeted during the attack, with damages documented through audio and video evidence.

An official condemnation was subsequently issued by the International Civil Aviation Organization. He added that damages to radar and technical systems were swiftly repaired thanks to strong coordination and leadership support.

He noted that His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah conducted field visits to assess the damage and praised the level of preparedness and adherence to safety standards in cooperation with national airlines and concerned entities.

The Civil Aviation Authority, under the leadership of Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah, successfully implemented emergency and security procedures in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, the General Fire Force, customs authorities, and other relevant authorities, reflecting a high degree of institutional integration and readiness.

Al-Otaibi also commended the support of Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, highlighting his role in monitoring readiness and ensuring the provision of necessary support to enhance operational efficiency.

He praised the rapid repair and rehabilitation work completed in record time and acknowledged the cooperation of the General Authority of Civil Aviation in Saudi Arabia for facilitating operations by opening airports to Kuwaiti carriers.

He added that Gulf cooperation strengthens regional integration and ensures continuity of aviation operations.

Al-Otaibi underscored that Kuwait possesses advanced infrastructure, including a modern third runway, cutting-edge control tower, and sophisticated air navigation systems, positioning the country to become a leading civil aviation hub in the region.

He pointed out that Kuwait’s strategic location enhances its potential as a regional logistics center, particularly with connectivity projects linked to Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port and broader transport networks.

Looking ahead, he highlighted plans to establish a specialized aviation academy aimed at training national talent, noting the growing presence of young Kuwaiti professionals in the sector. He stressed the need to expand training programs to meet anticipated growth in aviation activity.

Al-Otaibi concluded by affirming that the security situation remains stable despite regional tensions, urging passengers to follow instructions, avoid crowding, arrive at the airport three hours before departure, and refrain from unnecessary bookings or delays that could disrupt operations.