The government has suspended the notification that declared Cox’s Bazar Airport an “international airport,” leaving local tourism businesses disappointed just 11 days after the initial announcement. However, the Chamber of Commerce has urged authorities to complete full preparations and start international flights as soon as possible.
On October 12, the government issued the notification granting Cox’s Bazar the status of the country’s fourth international airport. The airport authorities had already made necessary preparations, including extending the runway to the seashore and readying a section of the terminal building for international operations.
But now, just 11 days later, the government has decided to suspend the notification. Tourism operators expressed frustration over the sudden move.
Mohammad Yakub Ali, General Manager of Hotel Prasad Paradise, said, “The suspension of the notification is disappointing. We had hoped that opening an international airport would attract a large number of foreign tourists to Cox’s Bazar, giving a fresh boost to the local tourism industry. Now, that hope is uncertain.”
Safiul Alam Kajol, Joint General Secretary of the Tour Operator Association of Cox’s Bazar (TOAC), added, “After the October 12 announcement, tourism operators were excited and optimistic that Cox’s Bazar would open a new chapter in tourism. The sudden suspension has left us disheartened.”
The Chamber of Commerce, however, emphasized that full infrastructure and service readiness are crucial before launching international flights, suggesting that the suspension could have a positive aspect. They urged that preparations be completed promptly to ensure the airport meets international standards.
Abu Morshed Chowdhury Khoka, President of the Cox’s Bazar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, “If the airport is inaugurated before it is fully ready, foreign tourists may have a negative experience. An international airport requires many services and facilities. If these do not meet international standards, it could harm Cox’s Bazar’s tourism sector. We hope the airport is completed properly and inaugurated as a fully functional international airport as soon as possible.”
Despite the suspension, residents and business stakeholders remain hopeful that international flights will soon begin, fulfilling the long-awaited promise.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
