Inquiry launched into Tk 4,000 Crore Misappropriation at Dhaka Airport

The recent hike in excise duty on domestic and international air tickets by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) is causing significant concern among Bangladesh's local airlines. Industry officials warn that this move will negatively impact the aviation market, particularly domestic passenger growth.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has launched an inquiry into alleged misappropriation of Tk4,000 crore in the construction of Dhaka Airport’s third terminal. Project costs reportedly ballooned from Tk7,000 crore to Tk22,000 crore due to corruption, design alterations, and the use of substandard equipment.

Foreign airlines operating at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport must hire their own staff for passenger and cargo handling, despite paying Biman Bangladesh Airlines for these services, leading to higher airfare costs. Airlines pay Biman $2,200-$6,000 per flight for ground handling, plus $0.07 per kilogram for cargo, but receive inadequate staff support.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines reported a net profit of Tk 2.82 billion for FY 2023-24, with total revenue of Tk 105.75 billion. The announcement followed Biman's Annual General Meeting, chaired by Board Chairman Abdul Muyeed Chowdhury.

Air Astra, Bangladesh's newest airline, has joined the International Air Transport Association (IATA) just two years after starting operations. This membership underscores the airline's commitment to providing safe and comfortable travel. IATA represents around 330 airlines globally, covering over 80% of air traffic.

Jiangxi province in eastern China has launched its first dedicated air cargo route to Bangladesh. An all-cargo plane carrying 55 tons of clothing and general merchandise departed from Nanchang City for Dhaka on 15 October. The route will operate two flights weekly, focusing on general cargo, cross-border e-commerce products, and edible aquatic goods. This service aims to enhance trade between Jiangxi and South Asian countries and improve logistics for economic partnerships, particularly under the Belt and Road Initiative.