Kamrul Hasan : A new chapter is set to begin in Bangladesh’s civil aviation sector with the long-awaited inauguration of the Third Terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Built as part of the government’s ongoing initiatives to modernize infrastructure and expand international connectivity, this mega project is expected to become operational by the end of the current year, according to Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita, MP.

Speaking to journalists on Friday afternoon, the minister stated that bilateral discussions between the governments of Bangladesh and Japan regarding the project are now in their final stages under the overall guidance and supervision of the Prime Minister. She added that most of the key infrastructural works have already been completed, and the concerned authorities are working vigorously to ensure the terminal’s inauguration within the scheduled timeframe.

The minister said: “We hope to officially launch the Third Terminal by the end of this year. Once operational, it will open a new horizon in the country’s aviation sector and ensure international-standard passenger services.”

According to relevant sources, the state-of-the-art terminal will feature advanced baggage handling systems, automated immigration facilities, modern cargo management, high-capacity security systems, and world-class passenger services. As a result, long-standing passenger inconveniences are expected to be significantly reduced, while the airport’s capacity to handle international flights will increase manifold.

Experts believe that the Third Terminal is not merely an infrastructure project; rather, it represents a strategic investment for Bangladesh’s economy, tourism, and foreign trade. The initiative is considered a vital component of the government’s broader vision of building a “Smart Bangladesh” through the modernization of the country’s communication and transportation sectors.

Analysts say the new terminal will substantially increase the passenger handling capacity of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. This is expected to attract greater interest from international airlines, create opportunities for launching new air routes, and further strengthen Bangladesh’s position within South Asia’s regional aviation network. At the same time, export-oriented industries—particularly those dependent on rapid cargo transportation—are also expected to benefit significantly.

Stakeholders in the tourism sector believe that modern airport infrastructure plays a crucial role in attracting foreign tourists. Therefore, the launch of the Third Terminal is also expected to bring positive changes to the country’s tourism industry.

It is worth mentioning that the Third Terminal project, financed by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is regarded as one of the largest and most expensive infrastructure development initiatives in Bangladesh. Experts believe that the inauguration of this international-standard terminal will further strengthen Bangladesh’s position in the global aviation network.