Aviation Sector Poised to Contribute 1.5% to GDP Within Five Years

Group Captain Dr Muhammad Kamrul Islam, the outgoing Executive Director of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), has expressed optimism that Bangladesh’s aviation and related sectors could contribute 1.5 per cent or more to the national GDP within the next five to seven years, provided current growth trends continue.

Speaking at a farewell and welcoming ceremony hosted by the Aviation and Tourism Journalists' Forum of Bangladesh (ATJFB) at the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) headquarters, Dr Islam noted that the aviation sector currently contributes less than 1 per cent to GDP. However, he pointed to substantial progress in recent years—including rising passenger numbers, the construction of HSIA’s third terminal, expanded cargo handling capacity, and partnerships with over 39 international airlines—as evidence of the sector’s strong potential.

He also highlighted the introduction of accountability-based operations at HSIA, which have significantly improved passenger services. “Over 85 per cent of baggage is now delivered within the standard time through automated tracking, and nearly 90 per cent of complaints are resolved via a dedicated hotline,” he said.

Dr Islam added that the recent cut in domestic jet fuel prices is expected to lower airfares and further stimulate domestic air travel.

At the event, the newly appointed Executive Director, Group Captain SM Ragib Samad, was formally welcomed. He pledged to uphold international standards in passenger and cargo services, with an emphasis on transparency and professionalism.