In the wake of escalating tensions following the recent US-Israel strikes on Iran, all flights from Dhaka to Middle Eastern destinations have been temporarily suspended. Reports of explosions and military activity across the region, particularly in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, have prompted aviation authorities to take precautionary measures.
On Saturday, 28 February, the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport authorities confirmed the suspension, citing passenger safety as the primary concern. Airport officials emphasised that the decision would remain in effect until the security situation in the affected countries stabilises.
Airline Responses
Biman Bangladesh Airlines, in a statement from their General Manager (Public Relations), Bosra Islam, confirmed, “Due to ongoing attacks and security threats in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, all our flights to Middle Eastern destinations have been suspended. The safety of our passengers and crew is our top priority.”
Meanwhile, US-Bangla Airlines is closely monitoring the situation. Kamrul Islam, the airline’s General Manager (Public Relations), stated that flights to Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam have been temporarily halted. “As of Saturday afternoon, none of our aircraft en route to Middle Eastern destinations are airborne; all are stationed safely at their respective airports,” he added.
Impact on Scheduled Flights
The following table provides a detailed overview of suspended flights from Dhaka to the Middle East:
| Airline | Routes | Suspended Flights | Current Aircraft Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biman Bangladesh Airlines | Dhaka–Dubai, Dhaka–Abu Dhabi, Dhaka–Doha | 5–6 | At respective airports | Suspended due to security risks |
| US-Bangla Airlines | Dhaka–Riyadh, Dhaka–Jeddah, Dhaka–Dammam | 3 | At respective airports | Monitoring situation closely |
Passenger Advisory
Airport authorities have urged passengers to contact their respective airlines for information regarding rescheduled flights or refunds. Passengers are advised to stay updated through official channels and to avoid travel to high-risk areas until further notice.
Aviation security experts have noted that operating flights in a conflict zone presents substantial risk. Suspension of flights is seen as a prudent measure to protect civilian lives and prevent potential incidents.
Authorities continue to monitor the evolving security situation in the Middle East, and the resumption of flights will depend on intelligence assessments and diplomatic updates. Passengers are advised to remain alert for official announcements from the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh and individual airlines.
Currently, the temporary suspension affects both scheduled and charter flights, with airlines prioritising passenger safety over operational commitments.
This decisive action underscores the vulnerability of international aviation in regions experiencing geopolitical conflict and highlights the importance of coordinated response measures between airlines and airport authorities.