Cox's Bazar Airport begins refueling works

Dhaka : Aircraft refueling has already begun at Cox's Bazar Airport prior to making it international by 2023 end.

ABM Azad, Chairman of Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation inaugurated the refueling programme by supplying 1,200 litres of jet fuel to an aircraft of Biman Bangladesh Airlines on September 3.

The authorities of Padma Oil Company Limited said that a total of 6,400 litres of fuel was supplied to three flights bound for Sylhet and Dhaka at Cox's Bazar Airport on September 3.

Now, refueling activities will be carried out every day at Cox's Bazar Airport.

BPC Chairman ABM Azad said that Cox's Bazar is a tourism hub. That is why, the Bangladesh government has declared to make Cox's Bazar Airport an international airport.

Once the airport becomes international, widebody aircraft will land here, which will ultimately increase the demand for fuel.

ABM Azad said Padma Oil Company Limited has been involved in refueling operations for many years. They have been given the responsibility of aircraft refueling management at Cox's Bazar Airport as well.

"They have started operations on Sunday. I believe, this refueling system is very necessary to cover the growing demands of this economic hub, or tourism hub," the Chairman said.

Airline officials said, it often becomes a problem if aircraft carry extra fuel from Dhaka. Also, amid bad weather, shortage of fuel can be risky.

Hence, as the refueling operation has started at Cox's Bazar Airport, such issues will no longer trouble the airlines, claimed industry insiders.

Also, this refueling initiative at Cox Bazar airport will save time and money for the airlines, informed airline officials.

The authorities of Padma Oil Company Limited said that the capacity of fuel oil in three tanks at Cox's Bazar Airport is currently 1,15,000 litres.

Furthermore, it will be gradually increased to 3,000-4,000 metric tonnes in the future.