Aviation Sector and Services to be Modernised: Aviation Minister

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita has said that the country’s aviation sector and related services will be modernised, with several key areas set to receive priority. 

She said work on the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport will be completed quickly and the facility will be fully operational. This, she added, will make passenger services easier and more efficient. She also expressed hope that expatriate passengers would remain within secure zones at the airport.

The photo shows the ground handling work at the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on March 15, 2023. Photo: JICA Bangladesh/ Facebook

She made the remarks while speaking to journalists at a views-exchange meeting held at the Manikganj District Circuit House auditorium on Monday morning.

Rita said special importance would be given to ensuring that Hajj pilgrims do not face any inconvenience during their travel. She noted that coordinated measures would be taken in operating Hajj flights, managing immigration procedures and ensuring overall supervision.

Highlighting the government’s goal of upgrading overall airport standards to meet international benchmarks, the minister stressed the need for qualitative improvements in passenger services, security and management. She also delivered a strong message regarding the third terminal, services for Hajj pilgrims and action against corruption.

The minister said steps would be taken to address irregularities and corruption within the national flag carrier and assured that necessary measures would be implemented to ensure transparency and accountability. She also pledged action against ticket syndicates.

Rita further outlined development plans for her home district of Manikganj, saying initiatives would be taken to tap tourism potential, improve transport links and strengthen the local economy.

Later in the afternoon, the minister held a meeting with district administration officials and representatives of various government departments at the conference room of the Manikganj Deputy Commissioner’s office. She called for a strict stance against extortion in every upazila and union of the district, saying that such activities must be stopped through joint efforts by the administration and the public.

District Commissioner Nazmun Ara Sultana, along with local administrative officials, government representatives and political leaders, was present at the meeting.