HSIA third terminal deal nears as 3 April talks loom
The consortium has addressed Dhaka’s concerns by revising service charges, operational control and revenue sharing—issues that had stalled progress
ATT Correspondent 
Bangladesh is close to unlocking the long-delayed third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), as fresh talks with a Japanese consortium enter a decisive stage after a revised, lower-cost offer.
A Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) official said the consortium has addressed Dhaka’s concerns by revising service charges, operational control and revenue sharing—issues that had stalled progress, BSS reports.
Recent technical meetings at CAAB headquarters reviewed pricing and operations in detail, with discussions now in the final phase.
CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq briefed Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanom Rita and State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat on the outcomes.
A second high-level meeting on 3 April at the Foreign Ministry is expected to be decisive. The Bangladesh team will include Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and other senior officials.
Officials are optimistic a final deal could be reached soon, possibly next week.
Renewed momentum
Though over 99% complete, the terminal has remained unused for years due to unresolved management issues, drawing criticism over policy delays.
Momentum picked up after Prime Minister Tarique Rahman ordered swift negotiations under the new government, leading to a 13 March meeting requesting a revised proposal.
Revised offer narrows gap
The consortium—Japan Airport Terminal Company, Sumitomo Corporation, Sojitz Corporation and Narita International Airport Corporation—has submitted a lower-cost proposal, narrowing differences and signalling greater flexibility.
Funded largely by JICA, the Tk 21,398 crore project spans 542,000 sq m and will handle 12–16 million passengers and nearly 900,000 tonnes of cargo annually.
Strategic urgency
Delays have caused congestion, limited slots and poorer passenger service.
Former CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal M Mafidur Rahman said opening the terminal is vital to ease pressure and boost Bangladesh’s regional aviation role.
With talks at a final stage, officials say a 3 April consensus could finally bring the project into operation.
