4 airports set for international gateway upgrade as govt proposes Tk1,884cr for aviation, tourism
The proposed allocation of Tk1,884 crore is higher than the revised budget of Tk1,300 crore for the outgoing fiscal year, although it remains below the original allocation of Tk2,455 crore.
The government has unveiled plans to upgrade Rajshahi, Cox's Bazar, Jashore and Saidpur airports into international gateways as part of a broader initiative to strengthen Bangladesh's aviation network, improve regional connectivity and facilitate trade.
The announcement came alongside a proposed allocation of Tk1,884 crore for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism in the national budget for the fiscal year 2026-27.
Presenting the budget in parliament today (11 June), Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury said the government aims to establish a nationwide air connectivity grid while turning Dhaka, Chattogram and Sylhet into integrated passenger and logistics hubs.
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According to the proposal, Rajshahi, Cox's Bazar, Jashore and Saidpur airports will be developed as international gateways to expand cross-border air links, stimulate regional economic activity and improve access to global markets.
The government also plans to launch an integrated digital logistics platform to streamline cargo movement, strengthen supply chains and enhance overall trade efficiency.
The initiatives form part of a long-term strategy to position Bangladesh as a modern regional aviation hub and reinforce its role in international transportation and commerce.
The proposed allocation of Tk1,884 crore is higher than the revised budget of Tk1,300 crore for the outgoing fiscal year, although it remains below the original allocation of Tk2,455 crore.
The finance minister said several infrastructure projects are already underway to modernise the aviation sector.
These include expanding terminal facilities at Jashore and Saidpur airports, operationalising the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at full capacity, and enhancing runway capabilities at Sylhet and Chattogram airports.
He added that development work at Cox's Bazar Airport is nearing completion, a move expected to significantly improve passenger-handling capacity and overall airport services.
