Bangladesh's three international airports, including Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, witnessed a major administrative shift as the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) officially terminated contracts with 16 lease-based commercial entities on June 30, 2025.
From the beginning of the new fiscal year, CAAB opted not to renew contracts with these companies, aiming to enhance passenger services, strengthen airport security, and establish a transparent and accountable environment free from long-standing political influence.
According to reliable sources, although these companies were allowed to renew their leases multiple times over the years, they consistently failed to meet the standards of passenger service. Instead, allegations of commercial irregularities, abuse of power, and creation of administrative deadlocks became increasingly common against them.
Most of these entities were reportedly operated—either directly or indirectly—by individuals linked to political figures from previous governments. Empowered by such patronage, they managed to establish a monopolistic and influential network within the airports, often dubbed a “shadow empire.” Some individuals associated with these companies are currently imprisoned on corruption charges, while others are believed to have fled the country.
Following the termination of their leases, a section of this former network appears to have re-emerged in a new form. Attempting to reassert their influence, they have launched a widespread misinformation campaign against CAAB using both social and mainstream media platforms.
Sources confirm that these campaigns are designed to undermine CAAB’s leadership by spreading misleading and baseless allegations against senior officials and policy-makers.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, several CAAB officials stated, “It’s time to move past the shadow of outdated influences and build a modern, professional, and accountable airport system. Collective support from all stakeholders is crucial in achieving this vision.”
As CAAB steers toward reform, the persistence of misinformation and political pushback highlights the enduring challenge of uprooting entrenched interests from vital public institutions.
FP/MI
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