Lahore, Pakistan implemented extraordinary multi-layered security measures to safeguard the aircraft carrying the Iranian delegation for high-stakes peace talks with the US in Islamabad, an aviation official stated on Saturday.
The security measures included a Pakistan airline aircraft flying alongside the Iranian plane, with its transponder turned off, and the Iranian plane departing from Gorgan Airport, located on the coast of the Caspian Sea, about 400 kilometers from Tehran.
The Pakistani air traffic controllers were informed in advance that the aircraft's transponder would remain switched off, allowing it to be tracked on primary military radar but without basic identifying information.
A key protective measure involved a Pakistani airline aircraft flying alongside the Iranian plane, with its transponder switched on, which was tracked by radar systems worldwide.
The Iranian Airbus A300 flew discreetly alongside the Pakistani Airbus A321, and after escorting the Iranian aircraft to Nur Khan Airbase, the Pakistani plane returned to Islamabad Airport.
The Pakistan Air Force implemented further security measures, including the Iranian aircraft flying over Afghanistan for an extended duration and entering Pakistani airspace via Chaman.
A robust aerial surveillance and protection system remained active throughout the journey, involving AWACS and fighter jets.
