Bangladesh is undergoing rapid economic growth, leading to increased demand for modern aviation infrastructure. To meet this demand, the government has initiated several new airport construction projects in 2025, aiming to boost tourism, trade, and regional connectivity.
This comprehensive guide explores upcoming airport projects in Bangladesh for 2025, their locations, funding sources, expected benefits, and how they will transform the country’s aviation sector.
Why Bangladesh Needs New Airports in 2025?
Growing Aviation Demand
- Passenger Traffic Surge: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka) handles over 15 million passengers annually, exceeding capacity.
- Cargo Volume Increase: Bangladesh’s export sector (especially garments) requires better air freight facilities.
- Tourism Growth: Cox’s Bazar, Sylhet, and other regions need improved air connectivity.
Challenges with Existing Airports
- Congestion at Dhaka Airport: Delays due to limited runway and terminal capacity.
- Limited International Connectivity: Only a few airports handle international flights.
- Outdated Infrastructure: Many regional airports lack modern facilities.
To address these issues, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) is spearheading new airport projects in 2025.
Major New Airport Projects in Bangladesh (2025)
1. Third Terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), Dhaka
Status: Under construction (Completion: Late 2025)
Key Features:
- 230,000 sqm terminal with 37 boarding gates.
- Enhanced capacity to handle 20 million passengers annually.
- Advanced baggage handling & automated immigration systems.
Funding: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) + Bangladesh Government.
Impact: Reduced congestion, improved passenger experience.
2. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib International Airport (BSMIA), Cox’s Bazar
Status: Phase 1 completion expected in 2025.
Key Features:
- First international airport in Cox’s Bazar.
- 3.2 km runway capable of handling large aircraft (A380, Boeing 777).
- Direct flights to Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe.
Funding: CAAB + Chinese contractors.
Impact: Boost for tourism (Cox’s Bazar attracts 3+ million visitors annually).
3. Second Runway at Shah Amanat International Airport, Chattogram
Status: Construction begins in 2025.
Key Features:
- New parallel runway to reduce flight delays.
- Expanded cargo terminal for increased trade.
Funding: Bangladesh Government + ADB.
Impact: Strengthened logistics for Bangladesh’s largest port city.
4. Sylhet International Airport Expansion
Status: Upgrades ongoing (2025 completion).
Key Features:
- Extended runway to accommodate wide-body aircraft.
- New terminal building with modern amenities.
Funding: CAAB + Private investors.
Impact: Better connectivity for expatriate Bangladeshis (UK, Middle East routes).
5. Proposed Airport in Mongla (Bagerhat)
Status: Feasibility study in 2025.
Key Features:
- Support for Mongla Port’s economic zone.
- Cargo-focused airport to boost exports.
Funding: Under discussion (Potential Chinese investment).
Impact: Enhanced trade in the southwestern region.
Technological Advancements in New Airports (2025)
1. Smart Airport Systems
- Biometric boarding (facial recognition).
- AI-based baggage tracking.
2. Green Airport Initiatives
- Solar-powered terminals (e.g., Cox’s Bazar Airport).
- Rainwater harvesting & energy-efficient designs.
3. Enhanced Cargo Handling
- Automated warehouses for faster logistics.
- Dedicated cold storage for perishable exports.
Economic & Tourism Benefits of New Airports
✅ Job Creation: Thousands of jobs in construction, aviation, and hospitality.
✅ Increased FDI: Improved infrastructure attracts foreign investors.
✅ Tourism Boost: Easier access to Cox’s Bazar, Sundarbans, and Sylhet.
✅ Export Growth: Faster cargo movement for garments, pharmaceuticals, and seafood.
Challenges in Airport Development
⚠️ Land Acquisition Delays (especially near Dhaka & Chattogram).
⚠️ High Construction Costs due to inflation.
⚠️ Environmental Concerns (e.g., impact on Sundarbans ecosystem).
Future Plans for Bangladesh’s Aviation Sector
- More Private Investment in Airports (PPP model).
- New Airlines & Routes (e.g., direct Dhaka-New York flights).
- Drone & Urban Air Mobility Trials (by 2030).
Conclusion
The new airport constructions in Bangladesh for 2025 will revolutionize the country’s aviation sector, supporting economic growth and global connectivity. With modern terminals, expanded runways, and smart technologies, Bangladesh is poised to become a regional aviation hub.
Continued investment in infrastructure, sustainability, and digital innovation will ensure long-term success for these projects.
FAQs on Bangladesh’s New Airports (2025)
Q1. Which is the biggest airport project in Bangladesh in 2025?
A: The Third Terminal at Dhaka’s HSIA (handling 20M+ passengers annually).
Q2. Will Cox’s Bazar Airport operate international flights in 2025?
A: Yes, Phase 1 will allow flights to Middle East, Malaysia, and India.
Q3. How will new airports help Bangladesh’s economy?
A: By boosting tourism, exports, and foreign investment.
Q4. Are there any eco-friendly airports being built?
A: Yes, Cox’s Bazar Airport will use solar power and green designs.
Q5. Who is funding these airport projects?
A: JICA (Japan), ADB, China, and Bangladesh Government.