KUWAIT CITY, May 4: The Acting Director General of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Duaij Al-Otaibi, has affirmed that Kuwait International Airport is safe and fully ready for operations, stressing that passenger safety and the protection of lives and property remain the highest priority across all operational procedures. Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency, Al-Otaibi said current security measures are precautionary and aimed at ensuring maximum protection, even if they cause some operational inconvenience. He emphasized that airport operations are being continuously monitored and adjusted to maintain smooth passenger flow from parking areas to terminal buildings. He noted that boarding bridges are currently not being used for security reasons, with passengers being transported to aircraft via buses. A return to the previous system is under review following ongoing assessments with relevant authorities. To support vulnerable travelers, special facilities including electric wheelchairs, elevators, and dedicated assistance services have been introduced for elderly passengers and people with special needs to ensure easier movement inside the airport. Al-Otaibi also confirmed that the main terminal gate will be reopened in the coming days once safety evaluations are completed in coordination with security agencies, including the Ministry of Interior and the General Fire Force. He said Kuwait is steadily advancing toward becoming one of the most developed civil aviation hubs in the Middle East, supported by major infrastructure investments such as modern runways, upgraded radar systems, and advanced air navigation technologies. He added that Kuwait’s strategic location, combined with projects like the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port linkage, strengthens its potential as a regional logistics hub. Highlighting operational challenges, Al-Otaibi urged passengers to avoid booking flights without traveling or arriving late, noting that such practices negatively affect airlines and disrupt other travelers, especially amid rising demand for medical and educational travel. He further revealed that damage to the airport’s control tower—described as one of the most advanced globally—was documented with audio and video following what Kuwait has termed a hostile incident attributed to Iran. The matter received condemnation from the International Civil Aviation Organization. He added that while some radar and technical systems were damaged, they were restored in record time through coordinated national efforts. Al-Otaibi praised the rapid response of Kuwaiti authorities and coordination among the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Interior, General Fire Force, Customs, and national airlines, noting that field teams demonstrated high readiness and efficiency during the operational response. He also highlighted support from senior leadership, including field inspections by the Prime Minister, and acknowledged regional cooperation, particularly assistance from Saudi aviation authorities in supporting Kuwaiti carriers during operational adjustments. He confirmed that Kuwait has already begun a phased reopening of air operations following the earlier precautionary suspension of airspace, with gradual restoration of flights underway and continued coordination with international partners to ensure full operational stability. Despite regional tensions, Al-Otaibi said the overall situation at the airport remains stable, with authorities conducting weekly evaluations to ensure a safe and gradual return to normal operations while maintaining strict security standards.