The Aviation and Tourism Journalists’ Forum of Bangladesh (ATJFB) organized a farewell and welcoming ceremony at the Civil Aviation Authority headquarters in the capital. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, May 14, 2025 (BSS) – Outgoing Executive Director of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) Group Captain Dr. Kamrul Islam today said that introducing accountability-based operations significantly improved passenger services at the country’s busiest airport.

“We focused on ensuring accountability during my tenure. As a result, over 85 percent of baggage is now delivered to passengers within the standard time, monitored through automated tracking systems,” he said.

He was addressing a farewell and welcoming ceremony organized by the Aviation and Tourism Journalists’ Forum of Bangladesh (ATJFB) at the Civil Aviation Authority headquarters in the capital.

Incoming Executive Director of HSIA Group Captain SM Ragib Samad was also formally welcomed at the event. 

Dr. Kamrul noted that around 90 percent of passenger complaints are resolved through a dedicated hotline system, helping strengthen service delivery.

He expressed optimism that the recent reduction in domestic jet fuel prices would help lower airfares, boosting the domestic aviation market.

Kamrul projected that the aviation sector's contribution to Bangladesh’s GDP could reach 5–6 percent within the next five years if current growth trends continue, up from less than 1 percent at present.

The outgoing executive director also expressed the hope that the long-anticipated third terminal would become operational this year, significantly expanding HSIA’s handling capacity and facilitating broader economic gains.

He thanked the media for their constructive reporting on the aviation sector, especially in light with HSIA’s status as a key point installation (KPI), and urged continued responsible journalism.

Newly appointed Executive Director Group Captain Samad pledged to prioritize international-standard services for both passengers and cargo, with transparency and professionalism.

“An airport is the first impression of a country. It must reflect the highest standards,” he said.

Despite political volatility last year, passenger traffic through HSIA increased by around 7 percent, driven largely by the continued outbound flow of migrant workers. 

According to official airport data, HSIA handled nearly 12.5 million passengers—both domestic and international—in 2024, compared to 11.7 million in 2023. International passenger movement alone rose by 8 percent.

ATJFB President Tanzim Anwar presided over the programme, while General Secretary Baten Biplob moderated the event.