CAAB earns top marks in UK airport security assessment

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has achieved outstanding results in the Airport Security Assessment conducted by the UK Department for Transport (DfT) in August 2025.

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), Dhaka, secured an overall assessment score of 93 per cent and 100 per cent in the Additional Measures (Cargo) category. Similarly, Osmani International Airport (OIA), Sylhet, achieved an overall score of 94 per cent and 100 per cent in Additional Measures (Cargo). The DfT team expressed high satisfaction with CAAB's performance and the overall preparedness of the airports.

The DfT inspection is an official overseas security audit used by the UK government to verify that foreign airports meet international aviation security standards for both passenger and cargo operations. It also reviews the implementation of additional protective measures requested by the UK. The UK has conducted these assessments in Bangladesh since 2017, ensuring ongoing compliance with global aviation security requirements.

This year's excellent scores mark a significant milestone for Bangladesh's aviation sector, reflecting the robustness of its aviation security systems and contributing to overall national security. In 2016, concerns over cargo screening led to restrictions on direct air shipments to the UK and the European Union, requiring re-screening in third countries—a process that increased costs and delayed exports. Since then, CAAB has implemented major reforms, introducing advanced screening technologies such as Explosive Detection Systems (EDS) and Explosive Detection Dogs (EDD) for export cargo at HSIA.

Through sustained investment in modern equipment, personnel training and procedural upgrades, CAAB has aligned Bangladesh's aviation security standards with international benchmarks. The high assessment scores reaffirm global confidence in the country's aviation safety and security framework, paving the way for increased trade, foreign airline partnerships and investment opportunities.

CAAB attributed this achievement to the visionary leadership of its management, the effective regulatory framework of the Aviation Security Division and the dedicated efforts of airport authorities and stakeholders.

Building on this success, CAAB reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening aviation security across Bangladesh, aiming to achieve and sustain the highest international standards in global aviation operations.