In just nine months since assuming office, Air Vice Marshal Md Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), has made remarkable contributions to the development of the country’s civil aviation sector. His visionary leadership has brought significant progress in passenger services, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, international connectivity, and humanitarian initiatives.
To enhance passenger services, several impactful initiatives have been implemented. At Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), telephone booths have been reactivated, a dedicated lounge for expatriates has been inaugurated, and a modern, air-conditioned waiting lounge has been launched, creating a more comfortable experience for passengers.
Construction of the Third Terminal at HSIA is progressing rapidly. A "Silent Zone" initiative has been introduced in and around a 3-kilometer radius of the airport to reduce noise pollution—an important step toward improving the airport environment.
As part of environmental conservation efforts, single-use plastic has been banned within airports. The Chairman has also emphasized public health by overseeing monkeypox prevention measures and inspecting healthcare readiness at airport facilities.
In compliance with ICAO guidelines, regular emergency response and fire drill exercises have been conducted at HSIA, Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram, and Osmani International Airport in Sylhet. These drills have significantly strengthened airport safety protocols to meet international standards.
The Chairman has also played a key role in expanding international connectivity. The launch of Ethiopian Airlines flights from Bangladesh has opened new routes, while the resumption of cargo exports from Sylhet to Europe and initiatives to expand cargo flights from Chattogram have created new opportunities in the export sector.
Demonstrating his humanitarian leadership, he contributed approximately BDT 12.2 million to the Chief Advisor’s Relief Fund to aid flood-affected communities in Chattogram and Sylhet.
To ensure smooth flight operations during heavy fog and adverse weather conditions, advanced ILS Category II systems have been installed, helping reduce flight diversions.
In terms of infrastructure revival, the first phase of work to reopen Bogura Airport is nearly complete. Efforts are also ongoing to upgrade Saidpur and Cox’s Bazar airports to international standards.
Among employee-centric initiatives, a child daycare center named ‘Nafisa Hossain Marwa Child Day Care’ has been established for CAAB’s female employees. Additionally, a prayer space has been set up on the ground floor of the CAAB office for staff convenience.
The Chairman has also explored the feasibility of introducing Starlink internet services at airports, aiming to enhance digital connectivity for travelers.
Under his leadership, the Civil Aviation Academy has earned the prestigious ICAO Trainair Plus Gold Membership plaque, reinforcing Bangladesh's position in international aviation training excellence.
Air Vice Marshal Md Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan’s nine-month tenure has injected new dynamism into CAAB and the broader aviation sector. His comprehensive advancement in service quality, security, environmental care, international integration, and human-focused governance is expected to elevate Bangladesh's civil aviation landscape to a new height.
FP/MI
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