CAAB warns against unauthorized airport ground handling operations

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has warned airlines and service providers against using or offering unauthorized ground handling and other operational services at airports across the country, cautioning that violations will result in legal and enforcement action.

The warning follows reports that some entities have been providing, or are planning to provide, ground handling and operational services without obtaining the required authorization or licence from the aviation regulator.

In a notice signed by CAAB Member (Flight Standards and Regulations) Air Commodore Md. Manirul Islam, the regulator said no individual or organization may provide ground handling or other operational services to any airline or aircraft operator at airports in Bangladesh without prior authorization or a valid licence issued by CAAB.

"Any entity intending to provide ground handling and/or any other operational services shall obtain the necessary authorization/licence from CAAB before commencing such activities," the notice said.

CAAB also directed airlines and aircraft operators to engage only service providers that hold valid authorization or licences issued by the regulator. It warned that any breach of the directive would constitute an offence under the Civil Aviation Authority Act, 2017, as well as other applicable aviation laws and regulations.

The regulator said violators would face appropriate enforcement measures, including legal action, and urged all stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with the directive.