After years of anticipation, the government has finally declared Cox’s Bazar Airport an international airport. The notification was issued following final approval of the chief adviser.
The gazette was signed on 12 October by Ahmed Jamil, joint secretary of the C1 branch of the Ministry of Military Aviation and Tourism under the President’s order. It stated under the powers conferred by sub-rule (1) of rule 16 of the Civil Aviation Rules 1984, the government hereby declares Cox’s Bazar Airport as Cox’s Bazar International Airport.
The notification also mentioned, “This order, issued in public interest, shall take immediate effect.”
Sources from Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) and Cox’s Bazar International Airport said with the issuance of this gazette, international flights on the Cox’s Bazar route are expected to commence soon, and all preparations have been completed.
Golam Mortoza Hossain, director of Cox’s Bazar International Airport, said customs and immigration facilities are already ready for international flights. Although some work remains, we expect international flights to start this month following approval.
Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the official declaration of Cox’s Bazar as an international airport.
Additional DIG of Tourist Police, Apple Mahmud, told TTN, “Undoubtedly, this is a major milestone for the country’s tourism industry. With the airport becoming international, Cox’s Bazar will soon become a popular destination for foreign visitors.”
Abul Qasem Sikder, president of the Hotel Guest House Owners Association, said, “The launch of international flights will boost tourism business and make hosting international conferences, corporate events, and cultural programs easier- further energizing local employment and the economy.”
According to the official website of Cox’s Bazar district, the airport runway has been extended from 6,790 feet to 9,000 feet, with a planned width expansion from 150 feet to 200 feet. The runway’s load capacity will be strengthened, it will be prepared for wide-body aircraft, and runway lighting will be upgraded.
For the new international level, a 10,912.49 sq. ft building and a 49,753 sq. ft connecting taxiway will be constructed.
