Turkey’s Çelebi shows interest in ground handling at Bangladesh airports

Turkey-based international aviation services company Celebi Aviation has expressed interest in conducting ground handling activities at Bangladesh airports. Representatives of the company expressed this interest in a courtesy call held at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism at the Secretariat on Tuesday (May 12).

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, Turkish Ambassador to Bangladesh Ramis Sen and Ministry Secretary Fahmida Akhtar were present at the meeting.

Representatives of Celebi Aviation expressed their interest in working to improve the quality of passenger services, baggage management, cargo handling and various services supporting aircraft operations at Bangladesh airports. In response, the Minister and State Minister said that Celebi Aviation will be considered for priority in hiring ground handling companies in the future.

Cox's Bazar Airport received special importance in the discussion. Minister Afroza Khanam said that upgrading Cox's Bazar Airport to international standards is very important for expanding the country's tourism industry.

She also urged Celebi Aviation to be interested in the ground handling activities of this airport.

State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has asked for a detailed 'concept paper' from the company to improve the quality of passenger services. It has been asked to outline the type of technology, services and management methods they will use.

The meeting also discussed joint investment and public-private partnership (PPP)-based cooperation between Bangladesh and Turkey in the tourism sector. Both countries expressed hope to develop a wider partnership in the aviation and tourism sectors in the future.