Cox’s Bazar Airport is preparing to launch international flights from the country’s longest runway, with a modern passenger terminal and upgraded operational and security facilities now awaiting the start of international services.
The airport’s runway stretches 1,700 feet over the blue waters, while a modern terminal covering nearly 18,000 square metres stands nearby. Both facilities are now being prepared for international flight operations.
The initiative to operate international flights from Cox’s Bazar is not new. International services were previously launched but later suspended because of technical limitations. This time, preparations are underway to overcome those obstacles, with international flights expected to operate from the runway from October.
Mechanical Engineer Md Nur Nabi said the airport’s technology is almost the same as that at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
“The baggage handling system, X-ray machines and security systems are almost the same,” he said.
Those involved with the airport expect it to play a significant role not only in tourism but also in connectivity and the regional economy.
Abu Morshed Chowdhury Khoka, former president of the Cox’s Bazar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the airport could attract more tourists as well as expatriate Bangladeshis living abroad.
He also highlighted the possibility of handling cargo for locally produced goods exported overseas.
“Tourists will come, and those of our people who live abroad may also come. At the same time, if cargo for products exported from this area can be handled here, it could bring another positive dimension,” he said.
Given Cox’s Bazar’s location near the border, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is establishing stringent security arrangements at the airport. Authorities are also placing the highest priority on ensuring that passengers do not face unnecessary harassment.
Md Saifullah, security supervisor at Cox’s Bazar Airport’s International Passenger Terminal, said all necessary facilities for passenger security are being ensured.
“All the facilities that should be available for a passenger in the security section are being ensured here 100%,” he said.
The new terminal has 14 check-in counters and 10 immigration desks, providing dedicated facilities for international passenger operations.
