Govt outlines aviatourism in its 180-day mission

The government has highlighted a series of initiatives taken in the civil aviation and tourism sectors during its first 180 days in office, focusing on improving air connectivity, upgrading airport services and expanding tourism infrastructure across the country.

Following the end of nearly a decade-long authoritarian rule, Bangladesh held its national election on 12 February 2026. Ahead of the election, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) presented a 31-point electoral manifesto to the people. Securing a strong mandate from voters, the BNP formed the government on 17 February 2026.

The government has now completed six months in office, from 17 February to 17 August 2026, and has outlined its progress and initiatives in the aviation and tourism sectors as part of its 180-day achievements.

As part of efforts to strengthen international connectivity, the Dhaka-Narita direct flight resumed on 27 July 2026 after remaining suspended since 1 July 2025. Biman Bangladesh Airlines restored the route with its BG-376 flight to Narita.
The government said it is also working to increase the frequency of flights between Bangladesh and Japan from one to three per week, while plans are under consideration to lease medium- and long-haul aircraft and expand international routes to address the shortage of aircraft.

Third terminal operation planned

One of the major initiatives highlighted by the government is the move to operationalise the long-delayed third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

Talks with a Japanese consortium over the terminal’s operation and maintenance have progressed, with the government targeting the start of limited passenger services from 16 December 2026, followed by a phased expansion of operations.
Measures have also been taken to improve cleanliness and passenger services at airport terminals, including sanitation, mosquito control and creating a more passenger-friendly environment.

Regional aviation hub by 2034

The government has also initiated a long-term strategy to establish Bangladesh as a regional aviation hub by 2034.
The plan includes increasing aircraft capacity, expanding international and transit routes, improving airport services and developing an integrated aviation and tourism framework.

The government is considering tax incentives for aircraft leasing and domestic airline operations as part of the FY2026-27 budget process. The measures are intended to help reduce airfares and improve the competitiveness of Bangladeshi airlines.

Reopening of old airports

The government has taken steps towards reopening old airports in phases. A feasibility assessment is being carried out for the commercial operation of Saidpur Airport, while a feasibility study has also been initiated for the renovation and development of Thakurgaon Airport.

Projects for Saidpur Airport development and pilot training infrastructure, as well as Thakurgaon Airport development, have been included among the new projects approved under the FY2026-27 Annual Development Programme with government funding.

Tourism infrastructure to expand

On the tourism front, the government has begun preparing a long-term development framework focusing on beach tourism, local heritage and biodiversity conservation.

Plans are in place to develop tourism infrastructure at more than 30 locations with historical, cultural and eco-tourism potential.

The government has also strengthened inter-ministerial coordination to address issues related to the security, movement and connectivity of foreign tourists through a 17-member national committee.

Officials said the initiatives undertaken during the first 180 days are aimed at transforming aviation and tourism into more competitive sectors, improving connectivity and passenger services, attracting more foreign tourists and positioning Bangladesh as a regional aviation and tourism hub.