Trial operations have begun at the new international-standard passenger terminal of Cox’s Bazar Airport, with passengers using the facility since Monday morning.
Officials expect the new terminal to significantly reduce the long-standing congestion and inconvenience passengers face at the airport.
Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) Member (ATM) Air Commodore Md Nur-e-Alam told Cox’s Bazar Life that the old terminal often had to handle 400 to 500 passengers per flight, and sometimes as many as 550, creating pressure beyond its capacity.
“The new terminal is currently operating on a trial basis, while its formal inauguration will take place later,” he said.
He said passengers would now have access to a larger space, adequate check-in counters and more seating facilities. He added that the trial operation would also help identify and address any operational problems before the terminal’s formal inauguration.
Built over an area of around 17,955 square metres, the international passenger terminal has 14 check-in counters, 10 immigration desks and two modern baggage claim belts.
The terminal is equipped with seven security scanners, metal detection systems and separate facilities for hold baggage screening. It also has four escalators, six lifts, a boarding bridge and a modern baggage handling system.
According to CAAB sources, the new terminal can handle around 2 million passengers annually. Testing and commissioning of various imported equipment have already been completed.
Airline officials have also welcomed the opening of the new facility.
Mohammad Kamrul Islam, general manager (public relations) of US-Bangla Airlines, said the terminal offered modern facilities and would benefit all airlines operating from Cox’s Bazar, not just his company.
“Passengers will receive better services and facilities than before,” he said, adding that modernising other domestic airports across the country would also benefit both airlines and passengers.
Passengers using the terminal on Monday also reacted positively.
Rakib Hasan, a passenger from Dhaka, said the old terminal often became so crowded that passengers struggled to find space to stand.
“The new terminal is much larger and better. There is enough space for passengers to move around and sit. He stated that the new terminal would significantly reduce inconvenience.
Another passenger, Nazma Akter, said she felt more comfortable as soon as she entered the new terminal.
“The check-in counters, seating areas and other facilities are well arranged. Once international flights begin operating, this will be an even greater benefit for passengers in Cox’s Bazar,” she said.
Passenger Saiful Islam said the old terminal often became uncomfortable when large numbers of passengers gathered at the same time.
“The new terminal is spacious, so it seems that the problem will no longer be as severe. These modern facilities will make air travel from Cox’s Bazar easier,” he said.
Tanvir Ahmed said the airport in Cox’s Bazar, a major tourist destination, had long needed a modern terminal.
“Foreign tourists will also receive better services here. The importance of the terminal will increase further once international flights begin operating,” he said.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
