Tourism Minister Announces 10 New Aircraft to Ease Expatriate Travel
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has announced plans to expand Bangladesh’s air connectivity, ease the travel difficulties of expatriate workers and strengthen the country’s aviation sector. Speaking at the Secretariat on Sunday, the minister said Bangladesh Biman’s capacity on Middle East routes will be increased to serve expatriate workers better. The number of daily flights to the region is expected to rise from the current 5–7 to 10–14. Steps are also being taken to improve food and onboard services. “We hope to launch Cox’s Bazar International Airport by October. Civil Aviation is working vigorously to finalize agreements, flight frequencies and other necessary formalities with foreign airlines,” he said.
The minister said construction of the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is progressing rapidly, with a soft opening expected by December 16. He said Boeing aircraft are expected to join the Biman fleet in 2031. In the meantime, the government is working to lease 10 aircraft on an emergency basis to meet rising passenger demand. The aircraft are expected to be added to the fleet from early next year. The minister also said New York flights could resume around January, subject to approval from ICAO and the US authorities.
Plans are also underway to reopen and expand Ishwardi Airport, with domestic flights expected to begin after improvements to its terminal and runway. A feasibility study for Bogra Airport is also in progress. “As part of the government’s integrated communication system, there is a plan to launch high-speed trains across the country, through which it will be possible to reach any part of the country from Dhaka within a maximum of 2 hours. If this system is implemented, it is believed that the need for additional regional airports will be reduced,” he said. The minister also said corruption-related records of the ministry will be reviewed with the Anti-Corruption Commission and that work is underway to launch a budget airline to offer more affordable air travel.
