Dhaka Airport’s third terminal preps for CAAB handover, sparking excitement and signaling progress in Bangladesh aviation infrastructure.

According to CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal M Mafidur Rahman, the government’s decision entails the operation of the third terminal by a Japanese company under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Given the time required for the Japanese company to commence operations, CAAB will initiate limited-scale operations, utilizing its own workforce and support from Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

The government’s strategy involves the operation and maintenance of the terminal through a Japanese consortium, marking a significant step in public-private collaboration.

Mafidur expressed that the Aviation Dhaka Consortium, responsible for the terminal’s construction, would hand over the building on Saturday. He noted the completion of system integration, calibration, and testing, with full readiness expected by October.

CAAB foresees the availability of necessary manpower by early next year, ensuring the terminal’s full operational status. A preliminary assessment by consultancy firm Nippon Koei indicates a requirement of around 6,000 personnel for round-the-clock operation in four shifts, with 4,000 focused on security.

Highlighting the airport’s complexity, CAAB officials mentioned the involvement of 28-29 organizations handling various services such as passenger facilitation, ground handling, immigration, and customs.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the third terminal partially last October. The project, initiated in December 2019 at a cost of Tk 21,300 crore, covers an extensive area of 5,42,000 square meters, with a floor space of 230,000 square meters.

Upon full operation, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s capacity for passenger and cargo handling is expected to double, catering to 35 foreign airlines operating 167 flights daily.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) will support the PPP Authority and CAAB in preparing a concession agreement for private operation. CAAB anticipates receiving the report from IFC by April.

While operational activities will be managed by the Japanese company, CAAB will oversee security measures. The new terminal will be seamlessly connected to transportation infrastructure, including elevated expressways and underground railways.

Furthermore, arrangements will facilitate Hajj pilgrims’ access to the terminal from Ashkona Hajj Camp through an underground tunnel, reflecting the project’s comprehensive approach to connectivity and convenience.”

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