Chattogram, Bangladesh – Shah Amanat International Airport has seen the cancellation of 174 flights over the past 24 days as escalating tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt air travel. The cancellations, occurring between 28 February and 23 March, have affected thousands of passengers, including Bangladeshi expatriates seeking to return home and international travellers on connecting flights.
On Monday alone, seven flights to and from the Middle East were cancelled. Despite the disruptions, airport authorities confirmed that 11 international flights between Bangladesh and the region remained operational, comprising six arrivals and five departures.
Shah Amanat International Airport’s public relations engineer, Mohammad Ibrahim Khalil, said: “Due to the volatile situation in the Middle East, approximately seven to eight international flights are being cancelled daily. On Monday, the cancelled flights included three arrivals from the Middle East operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, two departures by US-Bangla Airlines, and one arrival and one departure by Air Arabia.”
Flights to major destinations such as Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi remain particularly affected. Operators including Salam Air, Air Arabia, and US-Bangla Airlines have suspended multiple routes, leaving passengers stranded for days and creating uncertainty for those travelling for work, family visits, or essential commitments.
The disruption follows the outbreak of hostilities on 28 February between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which led to the temporary closure of several airports in the Middle East. As a result, flights on key Middle Eastern routes have been suspended, preventing travellers from entering or leaving Bangladesh. Passengers who booked tickets in advance have reported frustration at the lack of alternatives and delays in rebooking.
Summary of Flight Disruptions
| Date Range | Total Flights Cancelled | Affected Airlines | Major Routes Impacted | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Feb – 23 Mar 2026 | 174 | Biman Bangladesh, US-Bangla, Air Arabia, Salam Air | Chattogram–Sharjah, Chattogram–Dubai, Chattogram–Abu Dhabi | Daily cancellations averaging 7–8 flights due to regional conflict |
| 23 Mar 2026 | 7 | Biman Bangladesh, US-Bangla, Air Arabia | Middle East arrivals and departures | Some flights still operational: 6 arrivals, 5 departures |
Passengers at the airport described long waits and mounting concern over connecting flights. Many expatriates, particularly those returning from employment in the Gulf, faced delays of several days. Airlines and airport authorities have been coordinating efforts to notify affected passengers, facilitate refunds, and provide options for rebooking, but the ongoing regional instability has limited the effectiveness of these measures.
Airport officials have emphasised that the safety of passengers remains the top priority. “Travellers are advised to remain in close contact with their airlines, monitor flight updates regularly, and avoid unnecessary travel until the situation stabilises,” said Khalil.
The episode underscores the vulnerability of international air travel to geopolitical tensions. It also highlights the broader impact on Bangladesh’s expatriate community, whose travel plans are closely linked to Middle Eastern routes. As the conflict continues, authorities and airlines are likely to maintain strict monitoring of flight operations to ensure both safety and operational continuity.