Dhaka: Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat announced today that Bangladesh is embarking on a significant transformation to establish itself as a regional aviation hub. This initiative aligns with the country's ambitious goal of achieving a trillion-dollar economy by 2034.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Millat articulated the government's vision at a conference, "World-Class Aviation for Bangladesh's Economic Advancement," hosted by Bonik Barta at the United Convention Centre in Kurmitola. The minister emphasized the pivotal role the aviation sector will play in realizing the nation's economic objectives and highlighted the government's commitment to overhauling the current aviation framework.
Millat underscored the necessity of developing world-class airports and enhancing passenger and cargo handling capabilities to meet international standards. He revealed that the government has begun reforming civil aviation regulations for the first time in 42 years, focusing on removing barriers for airlines and stakeholders.
The minister stressed the importance of including airline representatives in drafting new regulations, ensuring a conducive environment for aviation businesses while upholding necessary standards. He encouraged industry stakeholders to provide feedback on operational challenges, promising to incorporate their suggestions into the regulatory framework.
Currently, Bangladesh faces high costs and procedural challenges due to the need to send aircraft and components abroad for maintenance. Millat announced plans to amend the Civil Aviation Act and relevant regulations to build domestic maintenance and repair capabilities.
Highlighting a recent study of an Asian airline's operations, Millat mentioned efforts to learn best practices in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), and efficient aircraft turnaround management.
Regarding the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), Millat credited the current government for reviving the $2.1 billion project, which had been previously cancelled. The government has engaged in discussions with Japan to ensure the project's completion, with the new terminal expected to double HSIA's passenger handling capacity.
In efforts to enhance airport efficiency, Millat noted improvements in baggage handling, reducing passenger waiting times, and the implementation of body-worn cameras to bolster security.
The conference featured notable attendees, including State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir, and industry leaders like US-Bangla Airlines Managing Director Mohammed Abdullah Al Mamun, who advocated for policy reforms to reduce operational costs for local airlines and enhance infrastructure.
Mamun emphasized the need for competition in ground handling and the provision of international-standard amenities at airports. He highlighted the challenges posed by high taxes and fuel prices, which inflate operational costs for Bangladeshi carriers. He also outlined US-Bangla's plans for substantial aircraft investments, primarily through external financing.
The event, moderated by Bonik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud, gathered policymakers, aviation experts, and representatives from various sectors, reflecting a collective commitment to advancing Bangladesh's aviation sector.