Dhaka: Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is working to open Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s third terminal on December 16 this year, marking the Victory Day. ‘The third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport will be opened in phases after completion of a deal with Japan and a test run,’ CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md. Mostafa Mahmud Siddiq said today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, CAAB chairman made this announcement during a meeting with members of the Aviation and Tourism Journalists Forum Bangladesh (ATJFB) at the CAAB headquarters. He emphasized that the proposed agreement with Japan on the operation of the third terminal would be made while fully protecting Bangladesh’s interests. The chairman assured that the agreement would be fair and all necessary steps would be taken to safeguard national interests. So far, nine rounds of negotiations have been conducted.
The chairman mentioned that both sides have reached a consensus on several issues, although some gaps remain. He expressed hope that the agreement could be finalized within the next few months. Regarding the timeframe, it would take at least three months to sign the agreement after negotiations conclude. A test run of six months to one year would be conducted post-agreement.
The chairman added that the government has set December 16 as a target date for opening the terminal, and work is progressing accordingly. On the topic of audits by the International Civil Aviation Organization, he confirmed the last audit was completed in 2018 and an ICAO team is expected to visit in October. The main audit is likely to be held between mid and late 2027.
Regarding security measures, the chairman stated that CAAB has received instructions from Police Headquarters to strengthen security nationwide. ATJFB President Tanzim Anwar, General Secretary Baten Biplob, and CAAB officials were present at the meeting.