The Minister calls for a clear roadmap for the future of the aviation sector

Photo: Collected

Dhaka, June 21 (CNI): Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita has emphasized the importance of formulating a comprehensive master plan with clear strategic directions for the future of Bangladesh’s aviation sector.

She made the remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration of a workshop titled “Review of the Aviation Master Plan” held on Sunday at the InterContinental Dhaka.

The minister said that air transport is no longer merely a means of carrying passengers and cargo; it has become a key driver of economic growth, trade expansion, tourism development, employment generation, and international cooperation. Therefore, she noted, a modern, efficient, and sustainable aviation system is essential for national development.

“To establish Bangladesh as a regional aviation hub in the future, a well-planned master plan is indispensable,” she said. “The master plan must clearly reflect where the country’s aviation sector is expected to stand in the coming years and provide a clear roadmap for achieving that vision.”

To ensure the long-term, sustainable, and integrated development of the country’s civil aviation sector, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has undertaken an initiative to formulate a comprehensive Aviation Master Plan. The workshop was organized as part of that effort.

Speaking as a special guest, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat said that the government has already implemented several major development projects aimed at strengthening the civil aviation sector. He added that work is progressing to officially launch the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by the end of this year.

The state minister further stated that preparations are in their final stages to operate Cox’s Bazar Airport as an international airport. In addition, initiatives have been taken to modernize and enhance the effectiveness of four domestic airports across the country.

The event was also attended by Fahmida Akhter, Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. The workshop was chaired by Air Vice Marshal Md. Mostafa Mahmud Siddique, Chairman of CAAB.

Participants at the workshop discussed various aspects of the future development of Bangladesh’s aviation sector, infrastructure expansion, and the formulation of an integrated master plan aligned with international standards.

– CNI News