Airports maintain uninterrupted flight operations despite unrest

Dhaka Tribune

Bangladesh’s major airports, including Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, operated without disruption on Sunday, with all scheduled international and domestic flights running smoothly amid a nationwide non-cooperation movement.

Group Captain Muhammed Kamrul Islam, Dhaka airport’s executive director, told Dhaka Tribune that the airport was handling a robust schedule of 152 international flights—comprising 77 departures and 75 arrivals.

Additionally, 118 domestic flights were on the timetable, with an equal number of 59 departures and arrivals, he added.

The airport official emphasized that there had been no cancellations of either international or domestic flights, underscoring the airport’s effective management during the unrest.

In response to a rising wave of student-led anti-discrimination protests sweeping the nation, security at airports across the country has been significantly increased.

The heightened measures aim to ensure public safety and maintain order amid the ongoing demonstrations, according to airport sources.

Speaking anonymously, security personnel at major airports advised travellers to arrive earlier than usual, as additional security checks might extend wait times.

In conversations with Dhaka Tribune, airport security personnel emphasized the necessity of these measures.

“The safety and security of air passengers is our top priority,” said a top security official at Dhaka airport. “We are working closely with local law enforcement and airport authorities to ensure a secure environment.”

Meanwhile, Shah Amanat International Airport in Chittagong Director Group Captain Taslim Ahmed said security had been increased to ensure passenger safety.

All flight operations, both international and domestic, were continuing as usual, and the airport was as busy as ever, he added.