Leopard strays into Islamabad airport’s restricted zone

ISLAMABAD: Panic spread briefly at Islamabad International Airport on Wednesday after a leopard was spotted near the Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower, prompting a swift response from security and wildlife teams.

According to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) officials, the animal entered the ATC ground area and roamed around for some time before being noticed by airport staff.

The Airport Security Force (ASF) and the Islamabad Wildlife Department were immediately alerted.

A wildlife team reached the spot and safely captured the leopard after a short operation. Initial reports suggested the animal may have wandered from the nearby Margalla Hills or adjoining forest areas.

The incident caused temporary concern among ATC personnel, though flight operations continued without interruption, CAA officials confirmed.

Authorities have launched an investigation into how the leopard entered the restricted area and have increased security along the airport perimeter to prevent similar incidents.