New Saudi-Bangladesh agreement increases passenger flights: CAAB chairman

A new memorandum of understanding on air services has been signed between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, increasing weekly passenger flights between the two countries from 49 to 84. The new agreement also includes provisions for 21 weekly cargo flights, fifth freedom rights, code-sharing, co-terminalisation and aircraft leasing, said Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmud Siddique.

He disclosed this at a press briefing at the CAAB headquarters on Thursday, August 13.

The CAAB chairman told journalists that under the new agreement, designated airlines of both countries can operate up to 84 passenger flights per week, which is 35 more than the previous 49. This will bring a major change in meeting the growing passenger demand between the two countries.

Highlighting the benefits, Mostafa Mahmud Siddique said, "Bangladeshi Hajj and Umrah pilgrims will be among the main beneficiaries. The additional flights will play a crucial role in handling the extra passenger load, seat shortages and operational complexities, especially during the Hajj season. This will increase airlines' operational capacity and flexibility, making Hajj flights more organised, reliable and uninterrupted."

Referring to the nearly 40 lakh Bangladeshi expatriates in Saudi Arabia, he said, "Increasing flight and seat numbers will make it easier for expatriates to travel to and from the country. Additionally, increased competition among airlines may offer passengers more competitive and affordable airfares."

New steps have also been taken to increase the use of regional airports alongside Dhaka. Under the agreement, Saudi airlines can operate direct flights from Chattogram and Sylhet to Riyadh, Dammam, Medina and Jeddah. This will reduce pressure on Dhaka while expanding international operations at Chattogram and Sylhet airports.

The CAAB chairman believes this will open significant opportunities for Bangladesh's trade sector as well. He said provisions have been made for 21 cargo flights per week between the two countries. This will enhance Bangladesh's capacity to quickly export garments, fresh vegetables, fruits and other products to the Saudi market. Additionally, under the fifth freedom traffic rights, designated Bangladeshi airlines can also operate cargo services via Saudi Arabia to destinations including Spain and Germany.

Other benefits under the agreement include code-sharing, co-terminalisation and aircraft leasing.

The CAAB chairman said, "This new agreement is not limited to increasing flight numbers. It has opened new possibilities in passenger transport, Hajj and Umrah management, expatriate connectivity, cargo transport, trade and commerce, and airline cooperation between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia."

He added, "Building on the longstanding friendly and brotherly relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, this agreement will provide a stronger foundation for aviation cooperation between the two countries. It will also play an important role in expanding international air connectivity and realising the goal of making Bangladesh an effective regional aviation and cargo hub."