Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Rashiduzzaman Millat highlighted today that the third terminal construction at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) was deemed completed by the previous government, but key components were left unfinished. Addressing a parliamentary inquiry from Abdul Hannan Masud MP, he mentioned that crucial machinery had not been integrated despite the building’s inauguration.
Millat revealed that the Aviation Dhaka Consortium (ADC), the primary contractor group for the terminal, had also left several tasks incomplete. The minister disclosed that the government discovered the terminal was constructed at a revised cost of Tk 21,600 crore after three adjustments, exceeding the initial budget of Tk 13,000 crore.
Stressing the urgency of operationalizing the terminal to utilize its value, Millat emphasized the need to swiftly generate revenue and repay loans. He noted that the government had already repaid Tk 1,100 crore to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and estimated Tk 902 crore was necessary to settle outstanding debts and finalize the terminal’s launch.
Millat projected that the third terminal’s activation would double passenger capacity, aiding in loan repayment to JICA. He confirmed efforts by the planning and finance ministries to secure the required funds, highlighting the project’s potential dormancy if not promptly addressed.
Furthermore, the minister disclosed plans for a probe into the purchase of nine aircraft during the previous administration. He reiterated the Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority’s commitment to enhancing revenue while prioritizing air traffic safety and airport services.
To enhance passenger experience and security, Millat outlined measures including help desks, advanced baggage scanning, improved immigration and check-in procedures, CCTV surveillance, and body cameras for ground-handling staff. He underscored the ongoing digitization of ticketing, refunds, and inventory management to streamline operations.
Highlighting service improvements, Millat shared that in the 2025-26 period, 86% of luggage was delivered within 18 to 58 minutes, showcasing enhanced efficiency at airports.
