Dhaka : A Japanese consortium is reportedly getting the operation and maintenance work of the newly-built Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in the capital for 15 years as the preliminary bid discussion concluded successfully.

However, the consortium is likely to monitor Biman Bangladesh Airlines' ground handling performance based on some key indicators before taking over the job. The interim government appointed the national carrier to carry out the task of ground handling at the Third Terminal for two years.

"We will soon call the request for proposal from the Japanese consortium and sign a concessional agreement after negotiation," said Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh Chairman Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan.

He, however, said it might take six to eight months to complete the formalities. Efforts were still on to open the Third Terminal of Dhaka Airport by October, he added.

Reports said following successful pre-bid negotiation between CAAB and the Japanese companies, a service-level agreement is likely to be signed between the consortium and Biman, under which the former would be part of the operation.

According to the pre-bid discussion, major revenue earnings will be shared with CAAB and the Japanese consortium will get a part and carry out the maintenance work of the Third Terminal.

CAAB Chairman said the share of the special purpose company would be finalized after receiving the RFP and completing the negotiation.

The Japanese consortium comprises Japan Airport Terminal Company, Sumitomo Corporation, Sojitz, Narita International Airport Corporation, Sojitz Corporation General Trading Company, and Jalux Inc. However, the composition is likely to be changed, concluded reports.