Foreign firms to handle passengers at third terminal along with Biman: Aviation Minister

Dhaka: The government has decided to bring a foreign operator for passenger handling services at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport's third terminal, while cargo handling operations will continue to be managed by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Civil Aviation and Tourism minister Afroza Khanam said on June 21.

Speaking to reporters at a city hotel, Afroza said the government is evaluating options for appointing a second operator for passenger services but has no immediate plans to hand over cargo operations to a foreign company.

"Cargo operations will continue to be handled by Biman Bangladesh Airlines. We are considering an alternative arrangement or a second operator for passenger handling, but no such decision has been taken regarding cargo operations," she said.

Her remarks come amid ongoing discussions over ground handling arrangements at the airport's much-anticipated third terminal, which is scheduled to open on 16 December.

Responding to a question about appointing a foreign ground handling operator, State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat said a number of international firms have expressed interest, and the government is reviewing their proposals.

"Many companies have shown interest. The matter is still under review. We will try to work with the company that offers the greatest benefit and is most suitable for Bangladesh. The final decision will be based on an evaluation by the relevant authorities," she said.

On preparations for the terminal's launch, Afroza said the government has made significant progress in appointing a Japanese consortium to support operational readiness.

She said the authorities have sought assistance from the Japanese ambassador through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to expedite responses to the request for proposals (RFP), with the aim of signing an agreement in July.

"The ambassador has assured us of cooperation. We have also requested Nippon Koei to move the process forward quickly. We do not see any major obstacle to achieving our target of opening the third terminal on 16 December," she said.

Addressing concerns over delays in launching the terminal, Millat said the setback was not due to technical complications but rather the cancellation of an earlier contract, which was later reinstated under the current administration.

"In reality, we had only four months to work with. Within this period, we have made substantial progress and completed almost all necessary formalities. If the agreement is signed in July, work can begin promptly and the deadline can be maintained," he added.