Shahjalal Airport Third Terminal Set for December Launch

The third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is being prepared for operation on 16 December, following government directives, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). The move marks a significant step in Bangladesh’s efforts to modernise its aviation infrastructure and expand the capacity of the country’s busiest airport.

CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmud Siddique said the authority is working to complete the remaining preparations so that the new terminal can begin operations on the scheduled date. He made the remarks on Monday (20 July) at a workshop on civil aviation and air traffic operations.

The CAAB chief also said that an agreement is expected to be signed with Japan regarding responsibility for ground handling services at the third terminal. The contract could be finalised either at the end of August or in early September, he added.

Ground handling plays a crucial role in airport operations, covering services such as baggage management, aircraft assistance, passenger support and other essential activities required for smooth flight operations. The involvement of an experienced international partner is expected to improve service efficiency and help introduce global standards at the airport.

The third terminal project is one of Bangladesh’s largest aviation infrastructure initiatives. It has been developed to address the growing demand for air travel, improve passenger experience and enhance the airport’s ability to handle increasing numbers of domestic and international travellers. Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport currently handles the majority of Bangladesh’s international air traffic, and capacity expansion has become increasingly important as passenger numbers continue to rise.

Meanwhile, CAAB has taken additional steps to strengthen security around the airport. The authority has requested media personnel and others not to operate drones in the airport area, citing passenger safety and overall security concerns.

CAAB officials said an anti-drone system will be purchased for Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport within this year. The system is expected to help detect and prevent unauthorised drone activities, which can pose risks to aircraft movement and airport operations.

The authority also highlighted improvements in air traffic management. According to CAAB, the establishment of an Air Traffic Control (ATC) system has strengthened the management of aircraft movement over Bangladesh’s airspace, including the country’s maritime boundaries.

With improved air traffic control facilities, Bangladesh is expected to see an increase in revenue collection from flight charges paid by foreign airlines using its airspace. CAAB estimates that revenue from this sector could rise by around 8 per cent annually.

The launch of the third terminal, along with improvements in aviation management and security systems, is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s position in regional air connectivity. The upgraded facilities are also likely to support the growth of tourism, trade and international business links by providing more efficient and modern airport services.