Four domestic airports to be upgraded to international gateways

The government has proposed upgrading four domestic airports to international gateways to strengthen Bangladesh's aviation sector and expand regional connectivity and trade. The proposed budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year includes plans to gradually upgrade Rajshahi, Cox's Bazar, Jashore and Syedpur airports to international standards.

Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury presented the proposal while delivering the budget speech in the National Parliament on Thursday, June 11.

The government aims to establish an integrated aviation connectivity grid, developing Dhaka, Chattogram and Sylhet as modern passenger and logistics hubs, the finance minister said.

As part of this plan, initiatives are being taken to expand cross-border air routes, facilitate regional trade, and increase access to global markets. A digital logistics platform has also been proposed to make cargo transport and supply chains more efficient.

The proposed budget has allocated Tk 1,884 crore for the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, which is higher than the revised budget of the outgoing fiscal year.

The finance minister informed that work is underway to expand terminals at Jashore and Syedpur airports, open the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, and upgrade runways at Sylhet and Chattogram airports. Development work at Cox's Bazar airport is also nearing completion.