Govt to split CAAB into separate regulator and operator
An audit conducted by ICAO highlighted the need to separate CAAB’s regulatory and operational responsibilities
The government has taken a policy decision to split the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) into separate regulatory and operational bodies.
The CAAB was informed of the decision through an official letter sent by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism yesterday.
Currently, CAAB performs dual functions.
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As a regulator, it oversees aviation safety and security, while as an operator, it provides air navigation services and manages airports. This dual role has long raised concerns over conflicts of interest in regulatory decision-making.
An audit conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) highlighted the need to separate CAAB's regulatory and operational responsibilities.
A similar recommendation was made by a government committee led by a senior secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, formed to investigate the fire at the import cargo complex of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on 18 October last year.
In line with these findings, the government has decided in principle to establish two separate entities – one as an independent regulator and the other as an airport and air navigation services operator.
Officials said the necessary laws and regulations would be enacted and amended soon to facilitate the formation of a new operational authority responsible for airport management and air navigation services.
They added that the move would help fulfil Bangladesh's international aviation obligations and improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of civil aviation services.
