Airlines urged to use Chattogram and Sylhet until Terminal-3 opens
Extra International Flights Suspended at HSIA
- CAAB suspends approval for additional international passenger flights
- Airlines advised to operate extra services via Chattogram and Sylhet
- Restrictions to remain until Terminal-3 becomes fully operational
The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has temporarily suspended approvals for additional scheduled international passenger flights at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) due to increasing passenger traffic and operational congestion.
The restriction will remain in effect until the airport's Terminal-3 becomes fully operational. CAAB has already issued the directive to 38 international airlines.
According to the notice, airlines without an operational base in Bangladesh will not receive approval for additional scheduled passenger flights beyond their existing approved frequencies, as HSIA has reached its practical handling capacity.
CAAB also clarified that previously allocated airport slots should not be treated as operational approval for additional flights while the restriction remains in force.
Chattogram and Sylhet Proposed as Alternatives
To ease pressure on Dhaka, CAAB has encouraged international airlines to operate additional flights through Hazrat Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram and Osmani International Airport in Sylhet.
Eligible foreign carriers may apply to operate additional scheduled passenger services through these airports until further notice.
Terminal-3 Expected to Increase Capacity
CAAB Member (Operations and Planning) Air Commodore Abu Sayeed Mahbub Khan said the decision was taken to reduce operational congestion at HSIA.
He added that once Terminal-3 becomes fully operational, the airport's passenger handling and operational capacity will increase significantly, allowing the authority to lift the temporary restriction.
Around 316 Aircraft Movements Daily
According to CAAB, HSIA currently handles between 140 and 160 international passenger flights, 125 to 140 domestic flights, and 10 to 16 international cargo flights every day, in addition to private helicopter operations.
Overall, the airport records around 316 aircraft movements daily, placing heavy pressure on its runway, taxiways, terminal facilities, aerobridges, check-in counters, immigration services and baggage handling systems.
Industry observers say expanding the use of regional international airports alongside the timely commissioning of Terminal-3 will be essential for supporting Bangladesh's growing aviation sector and improving passenger services.
//DBTech/SME/EK//
