Govt proposes BDT 1,884cr for aviation, tourism in FY 2026–27 budget

Dhaka: The government has proposed an allocation of BDT 1,884 crore for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism in the national budget for the 2026–27 fiscal year, aiming to strengthen Bangladesh’s position as a regional hub for air travel and tourism.

The proposed budget is higher than the revised allocation of BDT 1,300 crore in the previous fiscal year, though it remains below the original allocation of BDT 2,455 crore.

Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury presented the budget in Parliament, highlighting a range of initiatives focused on upgrading aviation infrastructure, expanding fleet capacity, and improving connectivity across the country.

He said, the government is implementing coordinated development programs to build a more modern and competitive aviation sector aligned with global standards.

As part of the plan, expansion work is ongoing at the airports in Jashore and Saidpur, while the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is expected to begin full operations soon.

Improvements are also planned for runway capacity at Sylhet and Chattogram airports, alongside the completion of ongoing upgrades at Cox’s Bazar Airport. These developments, according to the minister, are expected to significantly enhance passenger handling capacity and service quality.

He further noted that digital improvements are underway at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, including expanded Wi-Fi coverage across a large passenger area to improve convenience.

A major development in the aviation sector includes a deal between Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Boeing for the purchase of 14 aircraft worth around USD 3.7 billion (approximately BDT 45,408 crore). The new aircraft are expected to strengthen the national carrier’s international operations and cargo transport capacity.

The Minister added that the government is working to improve safety systems, modernize passenger and cargo services, and introduce more digital solutions to make aviation operations more efficient.

He also expressed optimism that these initiatives will contribute to raising the tourism sector’s contribution to GDP to between 6 and 7 percent in the coming years.

Plans are also underway to establish a national air connectivity network and develop major airports in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet into integrated passenger and logistics hubs. Regional airports, including those in Rajshahi, Cox’s Bazar, Jashore, and Saidpur, are also expected to be upgraded for international operations.

Alongside infrastructure development, the government is preparing a tourism investment strategy aimed at attracting more foreign visitors, increasing private sector participation, and creating new employment opportunities.