Four domestic airports to be upgraded as international gateways

Dhaka: The government has unveiled a plan to upgrade Rajshahi, Cox's Bazar, Jashore, and Saidpur airports into international gateways as part of efforts to strengthen air connectivity, facilitate trade, and improve regional transportation links.

Presenting the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-27 in the Jatiya Sangsad on June 11, Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said the government intends to establish a national air connectivity grid and develop a modern aviation network capable of supporting the country's growing economic needs.

As part of the initiative, Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet will be transformed into integrated passenger and logistics hubs, while Rajshahi, Cox's Bazar, Jashore, and Saidpur airports will be expanded to serve as new international gateways.

The finance minister also announced plans to introduce an integrated digital logistics platform aimed at ensuring smoother cargo movement, improving supply chain management, and enhancing trade efficiency.

According to the budget proposal, BDT 1,884 crore has been earmarked for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism for the upcoming fiscal year.

The proposed allocation is higher than the revised allocation of BDT 1,300 crore for the current fiscal year but lower than the original budget of BDT 2,455 crore.

Highlighting ongoing development activities, Amir Khosru said the government is carrying out a number of projects to modernize the aviation sector. These include expanding terminal facilities at Jashore and Saidpur airports, bringing the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport into full-scale operation and increasing runway capacity at Sylhet and Chattogram airports.

He added that construction work at Cox's Bazar Airport is nearing completion, a development expected to significantly enhance passenger services and the airport's operational capacity.