Shahjalal Third Terminal Set for December Launch

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is moving ahead with preparations to open the long-awaited third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on 16 December, in line with the government’s scheduled timeline. CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq has said that coordinated efforts are underway with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the project is completed and made operational within the stipulated period.

Speaking at a workshop on civil aviation and air traffic operations held in the capital on Monday (20 July), the CAAB chief said preparations for the terminal’s opening have entered a crucial phase. He said necessary steps are being taken to ensure that infrastructure, technological systems and operational capabilities are fully ready before the inauguration date set by the government.

A major focus of the preparations is ensuring efficient ground handling services at the new terminal. The CAAB chairman said discussions are progressing with Japan regarding an agreement to operate ground handling activities. The formal agreement is expected to be finalised by the end of August or the beginning of September this year. Authorities are seeking experienced and internationally capable operators to manage ground services so that passengers receive a standard of service comparable with major global airports.

The third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is regarded as one of Bangladesh’s largest aviation infrastructure projects. Designed with modern architectural features, advanced passenger facilities, automated systems and enhanced security arrangements, the terminal is expected to significantly increase the airport’s passenger-handling capacity once it becomes fully operational.

The expansion comes at a time when Bangladesh’s aviation sector is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing international travel, trade activities and tourism demand. The additional facilities are expected to help the country’s main airport manage rising passenger numbers and accommodate future growth in regional and international air connectivity.

Alongside the terminal development, authorities have also taken steps to strengthen airport security. CAAB has requested media personnel and other stakeholders to refrain from operating drones in the airport area due to security concerns. Officials said the restriction is aimed at protecting aircraft movement and ensuring passenger safety.

CAAB sources said plans are underway to procure an anti-drone system this year to further modernise security arrangements at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Such systems are increasingly being used at major international airports to detect and control unauthorised drone activities, reducing potential risks to aviation operations.

The workshop also discussed improvements in airspace management and air traffic control (ATC) services. According to CAAB officials, upgrades in ATC operations have created opportunities to increase revenue from foreign aircraft flying over Bangladesh’s maritime airspace. The improved management system could contribute to an annual revenue growth of around eight per cent.

Aviation experts believe that strengthening air traffic management will not only generate additional revenue but also improve flight safety and operational efficiency. As global air traffic continues to expand, a modern ATC system will be essential for making Bangladesh’s aviation sector more competitive and better integrated with international networks.

The opening of the third terminal is expected to mark a significant milestone for Bangladesh’s civil aviation industry. Beyond improving passenger experience, the project is likely to support the expansion of tourism, international business links and economic activities by providing the country with a more modern and efficient aviation hub.