The Airport Security Force (ASF) is a government agency responsible for providing security at all international and domestic airports in Pakistan. The ASF is tasked with protecting passengers, airport staff, and airport infrastructure from any security threat.
It is also responsible for enforcing aviation security regulations, checking passengers and luggage for prohibited items, and responding to security incidents. The ASF is part of the Ministry of Interior and works in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of passengers and airport operations.
Graana.com has compiled a detailed blog on the Airport Security Force, including its responsibilities, screening system and procedures, subsidiaries etc.
The Airports Security Force operates under the jurisdiction of the Secretary to the Government of Pakistan for Aviation, and is a division of the Civil Aviation Authority. The ASF was established in 1976 in response to the threat of terrorism and violence against the global aviation industry.
The current Director-General of ASF is Major General Zafar Ul Haq. The agency’s main responsibilities include maintaining law and order at airports, preventing crimes, and training its personnel in advanced counter-terrorism tactics. The ASF has the authority to enforce aviation security regulations and check if anyone is carrying any prohibited items.
The ASF plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of passengers, airport staff, and airport infrastructure. The agency is dedicated to providing a secure environment for aviation operations and protecting the civil aviation industry of the country against criminal interference. The Airports Security Force is committed to carrying out its duties with the utmost professionalism and dedication to ensure the safety of all airport operations.
According to the official website of the Airports Security Force (ASF), its primary mission is:
The Airport Security Force is authorised to search and detain individuals of interest within the airport premises. This includes individuals who may pose a direct or indirect threat to the passengers and airport staff.
The ASF personnel are empowered to investigate and detain any suspicious person and can then hand over the individual to the law enforcement authorities for the purpose of any legal proceedings. This helps maintain security and order within the airport and protect passengers and staff from potential harm.
The ASF is also responsible for screening luggage and preventing any dangerous items from being brought onto the plane. This ensures the safety of passengers and the smooth operation of flights. The agency’s commitment to security and safety is paramount, and its personnel are trained to carry out their duties with the utmost professionalism and dedication.
Listed below are the steps you need to follow when passing through the security checkpoint at an airport in Pakistan, where the Airports Security Force uses advanced equipment for passenger and luggage screening.
To ensure security at airports, the ASF has issued the following list of prohibited items:
The Airports Security Force has a highly efficient complaint management system, accessible through their official website. The following are the steps to file a complaint with ASF.
The Airports Security Force has established an efficient complaint management system to assist its customers with any concerns or issues they may face during their airport experience. The system comprises two main components: an online complaint management system and on-site complaint resolution and monitoring services.
The online complaint management system is available on the ASF website and allows individuals to submit their complaints by filling out a form with their personal information, flight details, and the nature of their complaints. The ASF control rooms, located at almost every airport in Pakistan, provide 24/7 on-site complaint resolution and monitoring services.
Passengers can approach the ASF help desk at the airport to lodge their complaints, which are then immediately forwarded to the control room. The control room is also equipped with CCTV cameras that allow for constant monitoring of the airport’s security situation.
Expanding its services beyond just security, ASF Pakistan now has various subsidiary companies operating in diverse areas.
Established in 2014, aimed at generating income to support retired ASF officials and their families.
Dedicated medical facilities for serving and retired ASF officials and their families.
Educational institutions for the children of ASF officials and those interested in joining the force.
Aimed at providing housing to serving and retired ASF officials, with some projects also open to the general public.
Trains both ASF personnel and those from third-party security organisations, using facilities such as the ASF Academy.
Communal spaces for ASF officials and their families to gather and participate in different activities.
The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Airport Security Force (ASF):
The Airports Security Force (ASF) is a federal agency responsible for airport security. It operates under the administrative control of the Secretary.
The ASF is responsible for maintaining the security of airports in Pakistan and ensuring the safety of passengers, employees, and aircraft.
The ASF uses a combination of physical inspections, security screenings, and advanced technology to maintain a high level of security at airports.
Yes, airport employees, including pilots, ground staff, and security personnel, are subject to security screenings to ensure compliance with security protocols.
Passengers are not allowed to bring firearms or dangerous weapons on flights, and such items will be confiscated by the ASF at the security checkpoint.
The ASF has established protocols and procedures for handling emergencies at airports, including rapid response units and evacuation procedures.
Yes, the ASF has the authority to refuse to allow a passenger to board a flight if they pose a security risk or if their identity cannot be verified.
If prohibited items are found in a passenger’s baggage during security screenings, they will be confiscated, and the passenger may face legal consequences.
Yes, the ASF provides assistance to passengers with disabilities to ensure their safety and security during the airport experience.
Individuals can apply for a job at the ASF by visiting the ASF website or the nearest ASF office. On the website, interested candidates can view available job openings and submit their applications online.
The eligibility criteria for ASF jobs vary depending on the position. Generally, candidates must be citizens of Pakistan and meet educational and age requirements. Physical fitness and medical standards may also apply.
The selection process for ASF jobs typically involves written exams, physical tests, and interviews. The exact process may vary depending on the position.
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