The government plans to launch the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on 16 December, coinciding with Victory Day, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita said on Tuesday.
The minister shared this information during a courtesy meeting and exchange of views with the leaders of the Bangladesh Aviation Tourism Journalists Association (BATJA) at the Secretariat.
She stated that the inauguration of the new terminal will significantly enhance the quality of passenger services. Furthermore, the minister noted that the terminal would expedite immigration, luggage handling, and boarding processes, which will, in turn, increase international passenger transport capacity.
According to the minister, various technical tests and operational activities are currently underway, and preparations for the launch are in their final stages. During the meeting, discussions were held regarding the current state of the country’s aviation and tourism sectors, development potential, future plans, and the role of the media.
Minister Afroza Khanam Rita emphasised that the government is implementing various initiatives to make the aviation and tourism sectors modern, safe, and of international standard.
She sought the cooperation of journalists to highlight the development and positive aspects of these sectors both domestically and internationally.
Beyond the third terminal, the discussion covered the improvement of passenger services, the expansion of the aircraft fleet, and the potential of the tourism sector.
The minister revealed that initiatives are being taken to increase the fleet size to meet rising passenger demand and expand international routes. “We are considering a mixed fleet. There is a plan to lease at least five aircraft within this year,” she said.
State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, who was also present, mentioned the plans to add new aircraft to the fleet of the national flag carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
The BATJA leadership highlighted the need for the media to play a more effective role in the positive promotion of the aviation and tourism sectors and stressed the importance of making information more accessible.
The four-member BATJA delegation included Convener Alimuzzaman Safuan, Member Secretary Imon Chowdhury, Daily Jugantor Staff Reporter Saif Ahmad, and member Shahadat Hossain.
