New Delhi: A 170-year-old mosque is at the centre of attention as the new government in West Bengal pushes for upgradation of Kolkata airport.The mosque, which is situated metres from the secondary runway has been identified as a safety hazard and an impediment for expansion of the runway by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), according to documents seen by ET.People aware of the development said AAI has given in-principle approval to shift the structure after a review found it is creating hindrance for flight operations. "A review by the general manager (operations) found that the structure is a serious concern for safety and security of flights and is also impeding the extension of the runway. The said structure is being used by jackals and birds as shelter leading to frequent interruptions and compromising the safety of flights," according to the minutes of a meeting reviewed by ET.Read More: Lessors aim to reclaim SpiceJet aircraft due to increasing unpaid rentalsThe commandant of Central Industrial Security Force at the airport said unrestricted access given for prayers is also a major security concern.On Saturday, state authorities suspended prayers. Officials at the airport, however, said this was done due to ongoing construction work inside the airport. People aware of the developments said AAI will soon engage with civil engineering companies to shift the structure while ensuring there is no damage to it.