Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s long-awaited third terminal is expected to become operational within six to nine months, Civil Aviation and Tourism State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat has announced. Speaking to the press on Tuesday (11 March) after a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen at the Secretariat, the minister provided a timeline for the terminal’s completion.
“The Prime Minister had instructed from the outset to open the third terminal as quickly as possible,” Millat said. “However, based on our assessments, it will realistically take six to nine months, with a strong likelihood of completion within nine months.”
Investment Discussions with China
During the meeting, the delegation also discussed investment opportunities in Bangladesh’s tourism sector. According to Millat, a memorandum of understanding had been signed between Bangladesh and China during the interim government period, but little progress was made at that time.
“Their visit this time is focused on investment in tourism,” he said. “They are particularly interested in upgrading Cox’s Bazar beach into an international-standard tourist destination and intend to conduct a feasibility study to determine how best to achieve this.”
Expanding Air Connectivity
The minister highlighted ongoing discussions regarding flight operations between the two countries. Currently, Chinese airlines operate 12 flights per week to Bangladesh. Chinese partners have requested an additional three flights per week to enhance connectivity.
Millat explained, “They have formally applied for three extra flights—two to Guangzhou and one to Beijing. We have asked them to submit a written request. Once received and verified, the Civil Aviation Authority will issue approvals.” He emphasised that these additional flights would strengthen bilateral travel, tourism, and investment ties.
Feasibility and PPP Projects
The minister also clarified that during the interim government period, several bilateral agreements with China, including potential public-private partnership (PPP) projects, had been proposed but were not implemented. “They are revisiting these discussions,” he said. “If a feasibility study demonstrates that a project is profitable for Bangladesh, we will consider its implementation.”
Proposed Timeline and Flight Expansion
| Project/Route | Current Status | Proposed Addition/Action | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Third Terminal, Hazrat Shahjalal Int’l Airport | Under construction | Expected completion | 6–9 months |
| Cox’s Bazar Tourism Upgrade | Feasibility study planned | International-standard beach development | Feasibility study ongoing |
| Chinese Flights to Bangladesh | 12 flights per week | 3 additional flights (2 Guangzhou, 1 Beijing) | Pending Civil Aviation approval |
State Minister Millat concluded that both infrastructure development and tourism expansion are part of a broader strategy to enhance Bangladesh’s international connectivity and attract foreign investment. He stressed that careful assessment and feasibility studies would guide the implementation of projects, ensuring sustainable growth for both aviation and tourism sectors.
