Air Traffic Controller Day marked with safety pledge
The Air Traffic Controllers Association of Bangladesh (ATCAB) joined the global aviation community in celebrating the International Day of the Air Traffic Controller, honouring the dedication and professionalism of air traffic controllers who keep Bangladesh's skies safe and efficient.
The celebration, held in a festive atmosphere at Sky Line Restaurant, RAOWA Complex, brought together air traffic controllers from airports, radar and area control centres across the country to highlight their essential contribution to global aviation safety and operational excellence.
Speakers at the event emphasised the critical importance of teamwork, continuous training and modernisation of air traffic management systems to meet the growing demands of Bangladesh's rapidly expanding aviation sector. They commended the round-the-clock vigilance of air traffic controllers who ensure the safety of hundreds of flights each day.
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Participants expressed satisfaction at the introduction of the state-of-the-art CNS–ATM radar system and the commissioning of the new ATC Tower Building at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. They also proposed extending Bangladesh's Flight Information Region (FIR) to cover Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) areas and, if required, establishing two FIRs in the future to meet regional operational demands.
Speakers included M A Akkas, President of ATCAB; ATM Nazrul Islam, General Secretary of ATCAB; and Air Commodore Md Noor-e-Alam, Member (Air Traffic Management), Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).
The programme featured a commemorative seminar, cultural performances and recognition of outstanding air traffic controllers. Discussions also focused on strengthening international collaboration and adopting advanced technologies to enhance airspace safety and efficiency.
Observed globally on 20 October, the International Day of the Air Traffic Controller commemorates the founding of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Associations (IFATCA) in 1961 – celebrating the unity, skill and professionalism of ATCOs worldwide.
Reaffirming its commitment to professional excellence and global cooperation, ATCAB pledged to continue working with CAAB and international partners to maintain Bangladesh's airspace as one of the safest and most efficiently managed in the region.
The event was co-organised by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) and sponsored by US-Bangla Airlines, Air Astra, Novoair, Hotel Sheraton and The Bangladesh Monitor.
