Cargo backlogs feared as 3 out of 4 explosive detection scanners down at Dhaka airport
The situation remains manageable for now because export pressure is relatively low
Three of the four Explosive Detection System (EDS) scanners used to screen export cargo at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport are out of service, raising concerns among exporters and freight operators over cargo backlogs, mounting costs and the risk of air export disruptions.
According to industry insiders, the situation remains manageable for now because export pressure is relatively low, but warned that a sharp increase in cargo volumes during the next peak season could trigger a major operational crisis.
Kabir Ahmed, president of the International Air Express Association of Bangladesh, said at least two to three EDS scanners normally need to remain operational to ensure smooth export handling.
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"But now all cargo destined for European Union countries is being screened using only one machine. As a result, the screening process has slowed significantly and backlogs are building up," he told The Business Standard last week.
According to industry sources, EDS 1 is currently the only operational scanner. EDS 2 has remained out of service for years, while EDS 3 developed technical faults on 15 March this year. EDS 4 has been inoperative since 14 September 2024.
Authorities relying on dog squads
Industry stakeholders said EDS screening is mandatory for cargo exports to European Union countries because the scanners are equipped with explosive detection technology.
Cargo destined for non-European destinations, including the Middle East and Africa, is screened through separate "Non-RA3" scanners. Of the six Non-RA3 scanners currently available, three are operational, one is out of service and two have been kept temporarily inactive. Sector insiders said the inactive machines are functional and can be brought back into operation if cargo demand rises.
There is currently no major disruption in cargo transportation to destinations outside Europe, according to freight operators.
To manage the crisis, airport authorities are increasingly relying on Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) squads as an emergency alternative to mechanical screening.
"Dog squads are essentially meant for emergency situations," Kabir said. "Since it has become difficult to manage all operations with just one scanner, authorities are using dog squads to ensure flights do not leave underloaded."
Freight forwarder Nasir Ahmed Khan said the lone operational EDS scanner is now being used mainly for cargo bound for London.
"Operations are somehow continuing with a single scanner, while dog squads are being used as an alternative. But this is not a long-term solution," he said.
Nasir warned that if export demand rises, airlines may be forced to reconsider cargo operations on the Dhaka route.
"If a cargo aircraft has a capacity of 100 to 110 tonnes but is forced to leave with 40 to 50 tonnes empty due to screening limitations, that becomes commercially unsustainable," he added.
According to industry sources, current air cargo rates to Europe stand at around $4.5 per kilogram, while rates for Canada and the United States range between $6.5 and $7 per kilogram, depending on the carrier, with some shipments costing as much as $8 to $9.
Exporters seek urgent repairs
Expressing concern over the prolonged breakdown of the scanners, exporters have sought urgent repairs.
Mahmud Hasan Khan, president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, said, "If this only machine also breaks down, there is a risk that import and export activities through the airport could virtually come to a halt."
He added that the BGMEA has already requested the civil aviation and tourism ministry to urgently repair the damaged scanners and is expected to hold a meeting with the minister this week to discuss the issue.
Industry insiders said the airport is currently handling between 400 and 600 tonnes of cargo daily. Although lower export volumes are helping contain the crisis for now, they warned that the existing screening capacity could become a serious bottleneck once export orders increase.
"Pressure is relatively low at the moment," Kabir Ahmed said. "But we are happy when the airport handles between 600 and 800 tonnes of cargo daily. Even now, because of the scanner shortage, authorities are having to rely on dog squads to manage additional pressure."
He said industry stakeholders have repeatedly written to the authorities seeking a solution and are preparing to send another letter soon. Discussions with airport authorities are continuing, he added.
Caab cites shortage of spare parts
Md Ahsan Habib said the specialised scanners require imported spare parts that are not readily available in Bangladesh.
"When technical faults occur, required parts have to be sourced from abroad, which takes time. But the authorities are not sitting idle; efforts are underway to resolve the problem quickly," he said.
Habib added that the scanners are highly specialised foreign-made machines requiring specific technical procedures for repair and maintenance, and that Caab has maintenance agreements in place with the relevant companies.
Allegations of rising unofficial costs
A freight forwarder alleged that the screening crisis is also increasing unofficial costs for businesses.
"Although there is a government-approved screening charge, businesses are now being asked to pay an additional Tk2,000 to Tk3,000 per consignment," he said.
According to him, the official screening charge is around 8 cents per kilogram, but businesses often have to make additional payments to secure timely screening slots.
"If extra payments are not made, getting serials on time becomes difficult," the freight forwarder alleged, adding that the payments are made to individuals involved in the screening process.
He, however, did not file any complaint for fear of backlash and complications.
Md Ahsan Habib, executive director (joint secretary) of the Central Procurement, Engineering and Store Unit at the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (Caab), told TBS, "We have not received any such complaint. If we receive a complaint, appropriate action will be taken through the airport authorities."
