The airport started its operations in 1980, taking over from Tejgaon Airport as the principal international airport of the country. The airport was formerly known as Dacca International Airport and later as Zia International Airport, before being renamed as Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in 2010. The airport has two existing terminals and one new third terminal that will be inaugurated on November 12, 2023. The third terminal will have a capacity to handle 20 million passengers annually, increasing the airport’s total capacity to 28 million passengers per year.
The airport has a state-of-the-art design that reflects the culture and heritage of Bangladesh. The third terminal’s roof will resemble a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and beauty. The terminal’s facade will have geometric patterns inspired by traditional motifs. The terminal’s interior will have natural light and ventilation, as well as green spaces and water features. The airport also has energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources.
The airport has modern facilities and services, such as 12 boarding gates with double entry bridges, 14 remote parking bays, 70 check-in counters, 64 immigration counters, 19 baggage claim belts, e-ticketing service, Wi-Fi internet coverage, first class and business class executive lounges operated by Five Star hotels, such as Intercontinental Dhaka; Bangladeshi companies such as Eastern Bank Skylounge or City Bank American Express Lounge; as well as local and foreign airlines.
The airport is connected with the city by road and rail. There are buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and trains available for transportation to and from the airport. The airport is also connected with other major cities and towns in Bangladesh by domestic flights operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines, Novoair, and Regent Airways. The airport also offers international flights to several destinations in Asia and the Middle East, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Doha, Kolkata, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore etc., operated by various airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Air India Express, Thai Airways International, Malindo Air, Singapore Airlines etc.
The airport is operated and maintained by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), which is responsible for ensuring safety and security of the airport operations. The airport also has a fire station and a medical center for emergency situations. The airport is open 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is a vital lifeline for the economy and society of Bangladesh. It plays an important role in facilitating trade and tourism between Bangladesh and other countries. It also provides mobility and accessibility to millions of passengers and cargo every year. It is a symbol of progress and pride for Bangladesh.
