Aviation experts gathered at Skyline Restaurant, RAOWA Complex, Dhaka on Oct 20 to discuss modernizing Bangladesh’s air traffic management. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Oct 21, 2025 (BSS) - Aviation experts and officials have underscored the need for continuous modernization of Bangladesh's air traffic management system to meet the growing operational demands of the country's rapidly expanding aviation sector.

They made the observation at a programme marking the International Day of the Air Traffic Controller, organized by the Air Traffic Controllers Association of Bangladesh (ATCAB) at the Skyline Restaurant of the RAOWA Complex in the capital on Monday evening, said a press release here today. 

Speakers highlighted the importance of teamwork, professional training, and technological upgrades to ensure greater safety, efficiency, and capacity in managing the country's airspace. 

They praised the crucial role of air traffic controllers (ATCOs) in maintaining smooth and secure flight operations round the clock across the nation's skies.

Expressing satisfaction over recent advancements, they noted the introduction of the state-of-the-art CNS-ATM RADAR system and the commissioning of the new Air Traffic Control Tower Building at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport as major milestones in modernizing air traffic services.

The speakers also recommended extending Bangladesh's Flight Information Region (FIR) to cover the country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) areas, and, if necessary, establishing two separate FIRs to enhance regional coordination and efficiency.

Among others, ATCAB President M. A. Akkas, General Secretary Wg Cdr (Retd) ATM Nazrul Islam, and Air Commodore Md Noor-e-Alam, Member (ATM) of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), spoke on the occasion.

The event also featured a commemorative seminar, cultural performances, and recognition of outstanding air traffic controllers. 

Speakers reaffirmed Bangladesh's commitment to professional excellence, safety, and technological progress in air navigation services through closer cooperation with international partners.

The day is observed globally every year on October 20, marking the founding of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Associations (IFATCA) in 1961, symbolizing unity and dedication to safe and efficient aviation.

The event was co-organized by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh and supported by US-Bangla Airlines, Air Astra, NovoAir, Hotel Sheraton Dhaka, and The Bangladesh Monitor.