The acting director general of the General Authority of Civil Aviation affirmed May 4 that Kuwait International Airport is safe and fully operational under precautionary measures that prioritize passenger safety. Duaij Al-Otaibi told the Kuwait News Agency that the authority is using buses for aircraft transfers instead of boarding bridges and will reopen the main terminal gate after further evaluations with security agencies.
According to Al-Otaibi the current security measures are precautionary and aimed at ensuring maximum protection even if they cause some operational inconvenience. The authority continuously monitors operations and makes adjustments to maintain smooth passenger flow from parking areas to terminals. Special facilities such as electric wheelchairs elevators and dedicated assistance have been introduced for elderly passengers and people with special needs. A return to the boarding bridge system remains under review following assessments with relevant authorities.
Al-Otaibi stated that the main terminal gate will be reopened in the coming days once safety evaluations are completed in coordination with the Ministry of Interior and the General Fire Force. He highlighted Kuwait’s advances toward becoming one of the most developed civil aviation hubs in the Middle East backed by investments in modern runways upgraded radar systems and advanced air navigation technologies. General Authority of Civil Aviation figures show the airport handled 14.93 million passengers in 2025. The official also pointed to the country’s strategic location and its linkage to Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port as factors strengthening its potential as a regional logistics hub.
The acting director general urged passengers to avoid booking flights without intending to travel or arriving late at the airport. He noted that such practices negatively affect airlines and disrupt schedules for other travelers particularly amid rising demand for medical and educational trips. Al-Otaibi’s remarks were reported by Arab Times.
Damage to the airport’s control tower described as one of the most advanced globally was documented with audio and video following a hostile incident attributed to Iran according to Al-Otaibi. The matter drew condemnation from the International Civil Aviation Organization. Radar and other technical systems damaged in the incident were restored in record time through coordinated national efforts he added.
Al-Otaibi praised the rapid response and coordination among the General Authority of Civil Aviation the Ministry of Interior the General Fire Force Customs and national airlines. Field teams demonstrated high readiness and efficiency during the operational adjustments. Support from senior leadership including field inspections by the Prime Minister was acknowledged along with regional assistance from Saudi aviation authorities for Kuwaiti carriers.
Kuwait began a phased reopening of air operations after an earlier precautionary suspension of its airspace with gradual restoration of flights continuing. The overall situation at the airport remains stable despite regional tensions. Authorities conduct weekly evaluations to maintain strict security standards while coordinating with international partners for full operational stability.
