Major Flight Cancellations Disrupt Dhaka–Middle East Travel

Dhaka is facing a significant travel disruption as flights from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to the Middle East continue to be cancelled. On Monday alone, 39 flights were called off, affecting passengers heading primarily to the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar. Flights to Oman, Saudi Arabia, and other destinations, however, are reported to be operating normally.

Airport authorities report that over the past three days, a total of 102 flights have been cancelled, with the disruption particularly affecting passengers whose visas are time-sensitive.

Summary of Recent Flight Cancellations

The cancellations have caused significant distress among passengers. Rajib Bairagi, a traveller from Tungipara, Gopalganj, was scheduled to fly to Kuwait via Emirates Airlines. He arrived in Dhaka last Friday, intending to continue his journey over the weekend. “My visa expires in just three days. I don’t know what to do now,” he said. With the Saturday flight cancelled, Rajib was unable to travel and could not even notify the airline in person, as airport entry restrictions prevented him from reaching the airline counter. He also reported receiving no government assistance.

Other passengers have faced prolonged waiting times at the airport due to the cancellations. Those with time-sensitive visas are under particularly intense pressure. Airport officials have stated that it is still unclear when operations will return to normal.

Airlines have assured affected passengers that rescheduled flights and alternative arrangements will be communicated promptly. Nonetheless, until the situation stabilises, uncertainty continues to weigh heavily on travellers.

Experts advise passengers to remain vigilant, maintain regular communication with airport authorities, and monitor updates from their airlines. Safety precautions, along with proactive engagement with officials, are crucial for navigating the ongoing disruption.