DHAKA, Oct 12, 2025 (BSS) – Bangladesh’s aviation security regime has received high international praise, as both Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka and Osmani International Airport (OIA) in Sylhet scored exceptional ratings in the latest security assessment conducted by the United Kingdom’s Department for Transport (DfT).

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), the DfT inspection, carried out in August 2025, awarded HSIA an overall score of 93 percent, including a perfect 100 percent in the Additional Measures Assessment (Cargo) category.

OIA similarly earned 94 percent overall and 100 percent for cargo measures, with the visiting UK inspectors expressing “deep satisfaction” over CAAB’s preparedness and performance.

The DfT’s overseas airport assessments are designed to ensure that foreign airports handling flights to the UK maintain robust aviation security standards for both passengers and cargo. 

The UK-Bangladesh inspection program has been in place since 2017, with periodic follow-up assessments conducted to verify compliance with additional security measures.

CAAB said the results mark a milestone in Bangladesh’s aviation security progress, underscoring its alignment with international best practices. 

“This achievement reflects the robustness of our aviation security system, which has direct implications for national and economic security,” the authority noted in a statement.

The agency recalled that in 2016, concerns over inadequate cargo screening led to restrictions on direct shipments from Dhaka to the UK and the European Union, forcing exporters to re-screen goods in third countries, a costly and disruptive process.

Since then, CAAB and airport authorities have upgraded infrastructure, equipment, and training, introducing advanced security systems such as Explosive Detection Systems (EDS) and Explosive Detection Dogs (EDD) for cargo operations.

Officials said the outstanding scores demonstrate that Bangladesh has successfully overcome past challenges.

“This recognition from the UK assures global partners that our aviation and cargo security meet international expectations,” the statement added, noting that it will bolster confidence among foreign airlines, regulators, and investors while reducing the risk of future trade barriers.

The remarkable outcome, CAAB said, is the result of “visionary leadership, a steadfast regulatory framework, and the effective implementation of aviation security measures” by both airport authorities.

It reaffirmed its commitment to continuous improvement, pledging to further enhance Bangladesh’s aviation security and maintain its position among the region’s most compliant and trusted air transport hubs.