On October 31, Noi Bai Airport conducted a security drill to respond to illegal interference as part of its 2024 emergency preparedness program. Nearly 400 personnel and 36 vehicles were mobilized for the exercise.

The simulated scenario involved a terrorist group infiltrating the passenger terminal, taking hostages, and threatening airport security.

At around 9:05 a.m., a five-seat car appeared at Noi Bai Airport, moving and parking improperly, causing traffic congestion at Hall E of Passenger Terminal T1.

Security personnel on duty at the scene approached the vehicle to provide guidance, but the occupants did not comply. Instead, they raised their voices, disrupting the area and drawing attention from security forces.

Shortly after, a second vehicle, a 16-seat van, carrying about seven armed individuals, sped toward and stopped at Door E3 of Hall E, on the first floor of Passenger Terminal T1. The terrorists opened fire, injuring two airport security staff.

The group proceeded to seize control of an internal security checkpoint, taking about 20 passengers hostage. They confined the hostages in the lost luggage area, secured the restricted area, and issued demands, including $5 million and an aircraft for international escape.

In response, on-duty leaders at Noi Bai International Airport mobilized local forces to initiate containment measures and notified higher authorities.

The airport director activated the airport’s emergency protocol, coordinating security forces with the Noi Bai Airport Police Station to encircle the area, prevent further attacks, set up checkpoints to protect key locations, and evacuate passengers, staff, and personnel to safety.

The Anti-Terrorism Command and the Emergency Security Task Force of Hanoi directed Hanoi Police to swiftly deploy additional forces and resources to the scene to handle and apprehend the terrorists.

Bomb disposal units scanned and cleared the area of explosives, ensuring safety, and restoring operations at Noi Bai International Airport.

N. Huyen