Aviation minister warns against misinformation amid Middle East flight disruptions

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroz Khanam Rita today (3 March) urged all stakeholders to remain cautious about misinformation as disruptions to Middle East-bound flights continue amid the regional crisis.

"In this unexpected situation, everyone concerned must stay vigilant against false information. We must continue our efforts to ensure that passengers are not subjected to harassment," the minister said at a high-level meeting at the ministry's conference room

The meeting focused on managing operations and minimising passenger suffering caused by the closure of several Middle Eastern airspaces.

The minister directed officials to give priority to passengers whose visas have expired or are close to expiration once flight operations resume. She also instructed airlines to maintain constant communication with passengers and provide accurate and updated information.

"If necessary, airlines should keep 24/7 emergency contact numbers active," she added.

Calling for a humanitarian approach, Afroz Khanam urged airlines not to impose additional charges on passengers during the crisis.

Officials at the meeting said that due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the airspace of Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait remains closed. Flight operations to Dammam in Saudi Arabia have also been suspended.

They noted that misinformation has further aggravated passenger suffering.

The meeting also discussed plans to operate additional flights to carry stranded passengers once the situation stabilises.

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat delivered the welcome speech. Secretary Nasreen Jahan, Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmud Siddiq, senior ministry officials and representatives of private airlines were present at the meeting.