CAAB launches free shuttle service at Dhaka airport

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) on Tuesday launched a free shuttle bus service at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), aiming to improve passenger connectivity with nearby transport hubs and enhance the overall travel experience.

The service, financed by CAAB, was inaugurated by HSIA Executive Director Group Captain S M Ragib Samad at a ceremony held in front of the airport terminal.

The shuttle buses will operate free of charge on three routes: Airport–Airport Bus Stand, Jasimuddin Intersection–Airport Railway Station, and Kawla–Airport, providing seamless transport links for air travellers.

According to CAAB, the initiative has been introduced under the guidance of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism and the supervision of the CAAB chairman to ensure safer, easier and more convenient access between the airport and key transport points in the surrounding area.

The authority said the service is expected to particularly benefit elderly passengers, women, children, people with disabilities and travellers carrying heavy luggage by making transfers more accessible and hassle-free.

Officials also expect the initiative to reduce reliance on private vehicles, ease traffic congestion around the airport, encourage environmentally friendly transport and further improve the quality of passenger services.

Speaking at the inauguration, Group Captain Ragib Samad said CAAB has been implementing a series of passenger-focused initiatives to modernise airport services and provide facilities that meet international standards.

"The free shuttle service will help passengers save time while ensuring safer, more efficient and more convenient travel between the airport and nearby transport hubs," he said.

Senior officials of CAAB and Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, representatives of stakeholder organisations and members of the media attended the inauguration ceremony.