NSG conducts major anti-hijack exercise at Cochin International Airport

The 52 Special Action Group (SAG) of the National Security Guard (NSG), India’s designated National Counter Hijack Force, successfully carried out a comprehensive, real-time anti-hijack exercise at Cochin International Airport (COK) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen aviation security and crisis response preparedness.

The multi-agency exercise began on 19 October 2025 and  be culminated in a high-intensity live operation on the morning of 20 December 2025. During the final phase, 52 SAG commandos carried out precision counter-hijack drills on an actual aircraft under realistic night-time conditions. The exercise aimed to assess operational readiness, response timelines, and coordination among agencies in the event of a serious aviation security threat.

The simulated scenario involved a hijacked aircraft landing at Cochin International Airport, triggering the activation of the Aerodrome Emergency Management Committee (AEMC). The drill tested end-to-end emergency response mechanisms, including command and control, decision-making, inter-agency coordination, negotiation procedures, medical preparedness and crisis communication systems, with passenger safety and minimal collateral damage as top priorities.

The exercise saw close coordination among multiple stakeholders, including the Kerala state administration, Kerala Police and Traffic Police, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), Airports Authority of India (AAI), Health Department and designated hospitals, Fire and Emergency Services, Air Traffic Control, airlines, ground handling agencies and other aviation partners. Officials said all participating agencies demonstrated a high level of professionalism and operational discipline, contributing to the smooth conduct of the drill. Airlines operating at the airport also extended full cooperation.

Specially trained NSG negotiators were deployed to engage with the simulated hijackers in an attempt to achieve a peaceful resolution. When negotiations were deemed unsuccessful as part of the exercise scenario, the 52 SAG commandos carried out a swift and controlled intervention, showcasing advanced close-quarter combat, aircraft intervention and hostage rescue techniques, while adhering to strict safety protocols.

Following the exercise, Cochin International Airport, along with participating agencies, will conduct a detailed debrief to assess key observations, best practices and areas for improvement. The findings will be used to further refine emergency response plans, strengthen communication frameworks and enhance inter-agency coordination.

Officials said the successful exercise reaffirmed the commitment of the NSG and Cochin International Airport to maintaining the highest standards of aviation security, in line with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) guidelines and Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulations.