Govt to Reopen Closed Airports Before Building New Ones

Several airports — including those in Thakurgaon, Nilphamari and Bogura — were once fully operational but were closed for various reasons during previous administrations

Feb 27, 2026 - 22:31 Updated: Feb 28, 2026 - 12:52

Govt to Reopen Closed Airports Before Building New Ones

State minister for civil aviation and tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat . File photo

The government will prioritise reopening previously shut airports before taking up any new airport construction projects, Aviation and Tourism State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has said.

Speaking at a meeting held at the Jamalpur deputy commissioner’s office on Friday, the Jamalpur-1 MP noted that several airports — including those in Thakurgaon, Nilphamari and Bogura — were once fully operational but were closed for various reasons during previous administrations.

“Our first step will be to restore these facilities. Only after that will we consider building new airports,” he said.
Millat added that if a new airport is eventually approved for any division, it would be established in Mymensingh. However, he stressed that reviving dormant infrastructure remains the immediate focus.

The state minister also addressed concerns over Hajj airfare costs, saying Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has directed the ministry to bring ticket prices down. According to Millat, the premier personally sought an explanation for the high fares and instructed officials to make them more affordable.

“We have reviewed the figures and found that it is possible for Biman to remain profitable while reducing ticket prices. Airfares will stay within reach,” he said.

Millat further said the current government inherited multiple sectors in what he described as a fragile condition, citing mismanagement and corruption. Fixing these issues, he noted, will require time and consistent effort.

During the meeting, he called on journalists to practice responsible reporting, welcoming fair criticism but cautioning against misinformation that could create social unrest.

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