Chronicle of flames: Fire incidents at Dhaka airport in the last decade
Bangladesh's aviation sector has experienced several fire incidents occurring at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) over the last decade.
Below is an account of notable fire incidents at HSIA over the years, based on several media reports.
18 October 2025 – Massive blaze at cargo village
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A huge fire erupted in the cargo village near Gate 8 of the Dhaka airport around 2:30pm. The blaze, originating in an area storing imported goods, including chemicals and fabrics, prompted the suspension of all flight operations.
Firefighting efforts involved units from the Fire Service, Air Force, Navy, and Civil Aviation Authority.
Various incoming flights were diverted to other airports, and authorities confirmed no casualties.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
2022 – Oil tanker lorries fire near third terminal
In 2022, two oil tanker lorries caught fire near the under-construction third terminal of the airport.
The fire was swiftly controlled by four fire service units, and no injuries were reported.
2018 – Short circuit sparks terminal fire
A fire broke out on the ceiling near the immigration section of HSIA, reportedly caused by a short circuit.
The incident caused panic among passengers but was quickly controlled, with no injuries reported.
2017 – Main terminal fire disrupts operations
A fire at the main terminal building of HSIA led to traffic jams and disrupted air travel.
Details about the cause and extent of the damage remain unclear.
2016 – Regent airways plane fire before takeoff
Technical glitches on a Regent Airways plane caused a fire just before takeoff at HSIA.
All 116 passengers and crew were rescued without injury.
2015 – Immigration police office fire
An electrical malfunction caused a fire in an immigration police officer's office at HSIA.
The fire was extinguished immediately without damage or injury.
2013 – 'Spicy Restaurant' blaze extinguished by staff
A fire started at the "Spicy Restaurant" inside HSIA.
Airport employees and staff extinguished it, with no reported casualties.
In response to the increase in fire incidents, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) had issued a high alert in April 2023.
The notice highlighted the significant fire risk in airport warehouses, where chemicals and other important goods are stored.
