Cox’s Bazar Airport Set for November Opening

Cox’s Bazar International Airport is being prepared for inauguration in November, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has said. A three-month tourism carnival is also scheduled to begin in Cox’s Bazar that month. The minister outlined government plans to develop tourism infrastructure, encourage private investment and expand the use of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair (BTTF) 2026, held on 31 October, Saturday at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Dhaka’s airport area.

Millat said preparations for the formal inauguration of Cox’s Bazar International Airport were underway for the coming month. The Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation is also set to organise a three-month-long Cox’s Bazar Tourism Carnival beginning in November.

Highlighting government initiatives to develop the tourism industry, the minister said work was underway to formulate a tourism master plan. The plan includes 1,498 tourism attractions of different categories and characteristics. The government intends to develop these destinations in phases through public-private partnerships (PPPs).

He further said private-sector investment and participation were essential for the sustainable development of the tourism industry. To this end, the government is working on investment-friendly policies for private investors and other tourism-sector stakeholders.

The theme of this year’s BTTF was “AI Powered Tourism, Sustainable Destination”. Emphasising its significance, the minister said tourism was no longer limited to travel and leisure. It had become an important driver of economic growth, employment, cultural exchange and stronger international relations.

He noted that artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and digital platforms could make tourism management easier, faster and more efficient. He also stressed the need to expand technology use to improve tourist safety, waste management, environmental protection and emergency services.

Around 300 stalls were set up at this year’s fair, with participation from more than 20 countries. Airlines, hotels and tour operators showcased tourism-related discounts and packages at the stalls.

//DBTech/JNR/SMP/MIST//