Cox’s Bazar to launch international flights in October, says Advisor Bashir

The advisor says the launch will start with a single flight, with more routes to follow in phases

International flights will begin operating from Cox’s Bazar in October this year, according to Civil Aviation and Tourism Advisor Sheikh Bashir Uddin.

He said the service will initially operate with just one flight, with additional routes introduced gradually.

During his visit to Cox’s Bazar International Airport on Thursday morning, the advisor spent nearly an hour discussing the project with airport officials, security personnel, and project leaders.

He inspected the under-construction international passenger terminal, arrival lounge, check-in areas, proposed immigration zone, and expanded runway.

After the inspection, Bashir said: “Launching international flights from the airport will not only boost economic growth but also increase foreign tourist arrivals. Reports suggesting domestic flights will be halted for this are false -- once upgraded, the airport will continue to handle all flights.”

When asked about security concerns, given the region’s history of drug smuggling, he said: “Security measures used in the past to prevent smuggling will be strengthened when international operations begin.”

Bashir also appealed to residents, including those living illegally on airport land, to support the ongoing development efforts.