Tk1,884cr aviation, tourism budget to transform 4 airports into int’l gateways

Aiming to transform Bangladesh into a regional aviation hub and strengthen trade connectivity, the government has initiated a plan to upgrade Cox’s Bazar, Jashore, Rajshahi, and Saidpur airports into international gateways.

To support these initiatives, Tk1,884 crore has been proposed for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism in the national budget for the fiscal year 2026–27, up from Tk1,300 crore in the revised allocation of the outgoing fiscal year.

While presenting the national budget in parliament on Thursday, Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said the budget also aims to raise the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP from 6% to 7%.

He added that the government has set a target to establish Bangladesh as a major aviation hub in South and Southeast Asia by 2034, alongside the development of a national air connectivity grid.

He further stated that an agreement has been signed with US aircraft manufacturer Boeing for the procurement of 14 modern aircraft to expand the fleet of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, while work is also underway to develop a national air connectivity network.

In addition, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Shah Amanat International Airport, and Osmani International Airport are being upgraded into full-fledged passenger and logistics hubs. Preparations for the inauguration of the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport are in the final stage. Airport Wi-Fi coverage has also been expanded across approximately 94,000 square metres to enhance passenger services. The government also plans to expand Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ international routes, improve service quality, and modernise cargo management systems.

The finance minister further noted that a new regulation for Air Cargo Operator Stations has been proposed to facilitate the participation of global logistics companies and local private operators in air cargo clearance.

Once implemented, the initiative is expected to gradually transform airports in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet into integrated logistics hubs, while also supporting the rapid expansion of the e-commerce sector.