Kamrul Hasan : The government has undertaken an initiative to formulate a Civil Aviation Master Plan aimed at transforming Bangladesh`s civil aviation sector into a modern, internationally competitive, and sustainable industry. As part of this initiative, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita, MP, inaugurated a workshop titled "Civil Aviation Master Planning Overview."

The workshop was held on Saturday (June 20) at the ballroom of Hotel InterContinental Dhaka and was organized by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). The event focused on the future development of the country`s aviation sector, infrastructure expansion, and the preparation of a comprehensive master plan aligned with international standards.

Addressing the event as the Chief Guest, Minister Afroza Khanam Rita said, "Air transport is no longer just a means of carrying passengers and cargo; it has become one of the key drivers of economic growth, trade expansion, tourism development, employment generation, and international connectivity."

She added that in today`s rapidly changing global environment, a modern, efficient, and sustainable aviation system is one of the fundamental pillars of national development.

The Minister further emphasized that a well-planned and practical Civil Aviation Master Plan is essential to establish Bangladesh as a future regional aviation hub. She noted that the plan should clearly reflect the country`s long-term vision, opportunities, and development roadmap for the aviation sector.

Highlighting the government`s ongoing efforts, she said several major projects have already been implemented to strengthen the civil aviation sector. Work is progressing steadily to officially commission the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by the end of this year.

The workshop was chaired by Air Vice Marshal Md. Mostafa Mahmud Siddique, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).

Speaking as the Special Guest, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, MP, said that preparations to operate Cox`s Bazar Airport as an international airport are in their final stages. He also noted that the government has taken initiatives to modernize and fully operationalize four domestic airports across the country.

He thanked CAAB officials for organizing the workshop and stressed the importance of developing a skilled workforce to support the country`s growing aviation industry.

The event was also attended by Ministry Secretary Fahmida Akhtar, who joined as the Guest of Honour, along with senior officials from relevant government agencies.

Senior government officials, aviation experts, policymakers, and other stakeholders participated in the workshop. Speakers expressed optimism that the implementation of a comprehensive and forward-looking master plan would significantly enhance Bangladesh`s competitiveness in the global aviation industry while accelerating the country`s economic growth and tourism development.