Four Airports Becoming International Gateways
Graphics: Agamir Somoy
In the proposed national budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, an allocation of Tk 1,884 crore has been proposed for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. Although this proposed allocation is higher than the revised Tk 1,300 crore of the outgoing fiscal year, it is slightly lower than the original allocation of Tk 2,455 crore. However, despite the reduced allocation, the government has outlined a larger strategy and an ambitious roadmap in the new budget to transform Bangladesh into a dynamic regional aviation hub and strengthen the country's position in the global trade and transport network.
Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury announced these new plans for the aviation and tourism sector while presenting the budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year in the National Parliament on Thursday (June 11).
National Air Connectivity Grid and New International Gateways
Looking towards the future, Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury announced the establishment of a 'National Air Connectivity Grid'. Under this grid, Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet will be transformed into integrated passenger and logistics hubs.
The Minister said that to increase regional and international air connectivity and support economic activities across the country, new international gateways are being established. As part of this, the government has a plan to upgrade the Rajshahi, Cox's Bazar, Jashore (Jessore), and Saidpur airports into international gateways.
Integrated Digital Logistics Platform
With the aim of increasing trade, transport, and regional connectivity, the government has announced plans to launch a state-of-the-art integrated digital logistics platform. The Finance Minister said this digital platform will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth movement of goods, strengthening the supply chain, and enhancing the country's overall trade efficiency.
Continuous Infrastructure Development of Airports
The Finance Minister stated that the government is implementing continuous infrastructure development projects to modernize the aviation sector. According to government plans, terminal facilities at Jashore and Saidpur airports are being expanded, and the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is on the verge of full operation. Additionally, initiatives have been taken to increase the runway capacity of Sylhet and Chattogram international airports.
He further informed that the ongoing development work at Cox's Bazar Airport is also nearing completion, which will soon further enhance the airport's capacity and passenger service. Additionally, to improve passenger service quality, free Wi-Fi network has already been expanded across approximately 94,000 square meters of Shahjalal International Airport.
Biman's Agreement with Boeing
The Finance Minister shared some major news regarding the modernization and capacity enhancement of the national flag carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines. He added that a final agreement has been signed with the US aircraft manufacturer Boeing to purchase 14 state-of-the-art aircraft for approximately 3.7 billion US dollars. This initiative will increase Biman's connectivity on international routes, enhance passenger and cargo transport capacity, and strengthen the country's position in global competition.
Safe Aviation and Tourism's GDP Target
The Minister stated that the government is simultaneously modernizing airport passenger services, strengthening cargo management systems, improving aviation safety standards, and expanding digital services to build a safer, more efficient, and competitive aviation sector. Through these steps, a target has been set to further energize the tourism sector and increase its contribution to the country's overall GDP to 6-7 percent.
To build a sustainable and inclusive aviation system, the government is placing special emphasis on ensuring hassle-free passenger services at airports, increasing facilities for expatriate workers, encouraging the use of renewable energy, and developing skilled human resources. Simultaneously, a special 'Investment Roadmap' is being formulated to attract investment in the tourism sector, which will create extensive employment opportunities and accelerate economic growth in the country.