Bangladeshi’s air cargo sector is experiencing a period of significant growth and strategic expansion, with Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka firmly established as the nation’s primary air fright gateway.
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport handles the overwhelming majority of the country’s aerial trade, processing approximately 210,000 metric tons of exports and 121,000 metric tons of imports annually. In contrast, Chattogram’s Shah Amanat International Airport currently manages a considerably smaller volume of cargo.
A Pivotal moment for the sector arrived with India’s expected suspension of road transshipment facilities for Bangladeshi goods. Far from a setback, this development encouraged a dynamic shift towards nonstop air freight, a transition led by the national flag carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
During this critical stage, a collaborative effort relating the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), exports, and particularly Biman Bangladesh airlines, proved instrumental in navigating the challenges.
A key outcome was the upgrade of Syhlet Osmani International Airport for dedicated freighter operations. This move was bolstered by the airport’s attainment of RA3 certification from the European Union and the UK in March 2025, a validation of its adherence to international safety and security standards, valid until 2028.
This enabled the historic launch of the first air freighter operations from Sylhet to Zaragoza, Spain, on April 27, 2025. It’s began with one weekly freighter in May is slated weekly from Sylhet.
Observing ahead, plans are well underway to commence cargo freighter facilities from Chattogram Airport. CAAB is actively developing the necessary infrastructure, and Biman is poised to integrate cargo flights alongside its existing passenger services.
An existing new prospect to integrate cargo flights alongside its existing passenger services. An exciting new prospect is also emerging in the country’s southern region : Cox’s Bazar Airport, with robust infrastructure, an extended runway, and a new railway link to Dhaka (just 180 kilometers from Chattogram), Coxs Bazar is being developed as Bangladesh’s fourth-largest international airport, presenting a viable option for cost-effective cargo transport. Biman Bangladesh Airlines is proactively preparing its workforce, cargo warehouses, and handling equipment to leverage this potential.
In Dhaka, the new third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is nearing decision, composed to practically triple the airport’s cargo handling capacity. Projection indicates a substantial increase in cargo volume, from approximately 334,000 metric tons in 2019 to an estimated 434,000 metric tons by 2025, and a projected 663,000 metric tons by 2035. Biman Bangladesh Airlines is diligently ensuring the necessary infrastructure, skilled personnel, and international-standard services for this expanded facility, which includes the acquisition of 381 pieces of modern cargo handling equipment.
Biman’s cargo directorate reported record earnings in the 2024-25 fiscal years, underscoring its growing strength. The airline has further solidified its commitment to international safety and quality standards by securing both RA3 and ACC3 certifications, crucial both shopping cargo to the EU and UK. Currently, Biman Bangladesh Airlines serves as the designated cargo handling agent for an impressive 48 international airlines. Beyond its scheduled cargo charter flights annually, highlighting its robust operational capabilities and significant role in the global air cargo industry.
For sustained growth, Biman Cargo actively pursuing strategic alliances, including special prorate agreements (SPA), block space agreements (BSA), code-sharing, and partnerships with leading global carries such as Etihad Airways, Emirates, British Airways, Gulf Air, Royal Dutch Airlines, and Air France. These initiatives aim to broaden Biman’s cargo network, maximize transport capacity, and cater to increasing international demand with high-quality services. Efforts are also in progress to streamline the handling of transit and transfer cargo through Dhaka.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines has demonstrated remarkable leadership in transforming challenges into opportunities, proving itself not merely a participant but a driving force in the advancement of Bangladesh’s air cargo sector. In an era where air cargo signifies more than just transportation, it represents the nation’s aspirations and global ambitions; Biman Bangladesh Airlines is truly adding new wings to this symbol.
