On March 17, 2025, a group of employees staged a protest in front of the headquarters of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), beginning at 10:00 AM and blocking the highway. The demonstration caused severe traffic congestion around the airport, disrupted public movement, and led to many international passengers missing their flights.
However, analysts suggest that the protest was not solely about employee rights but was instead an attempt to protect a long-standing network involved in corruption, gold smuggling, and human trafficking. Following the fall of the autocratic government on August 5, the Airport Armed Police Battalion (APBn) vacated the airport, and the Air Force immediately took over to restore order, ensuring security and discipline. This transition reportedly frustrated certain dishonest officials and employees who had previously benefited from smuggling, bribery, luggage theft, and unauthorized terminal access, as their illicit revenue streams were cut off.
Meanwhile, regular passengers have expressed satisfaction with the improved airport environment. Many believe that passenger services have significantly enhanced and that the elimination of corruption has made airport operations more transparent and secure. CAAB continues to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against corruption while striving to further enhance passenger services.
Despite these positive changes, some unscrupulous employees resorted to protests on March 17, allegedly to protect their vested interests. This has raised concerns among the public and travelers alike: Will the airport revert to its past plagued by luggage theft, bribery, and irregularities, or will the current disciplined system prevail?
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