Dhaka, Sylhet airports earn top security ratings from UK Transport Department

Published : Sunday, 12 October, 2025 at 7:41 PM Count : 26

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has received high international praise, as both Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka and Osmani International Airport (OIA) in Sylhet scored exceptional ratings in the latest security assessment conducted by the United Kingdom's Department for Transport (DfT).

In the assessment conducted in August, HSIA achieved an overall assessment score of 93% and a 100% in the additional measures assessment (Cargo), while OIA has scored 94% overall and 100% for additional measures (Cargo), CAAB said in a press release today.

The DfT team expressed satisfaction with the preparation and performance of CAAB, it added.

The DfT's overseas airport assessments are designed to ensure that foreign airports handling flights to the UK maintain robust aviation security standards for both passengers and cargo.

The UK-Bangladesh inspection programme has been in place since 2017, with periodic follow-up assessments conducted to verify compliance with additional security measures.

CAAB said the results mark a milestone in Bangladesh's aviation security progress, underscoring its alignment with international best practices.

The agency recalled that in 2016, concerns over inadequate cargo screening led to restrictions on direct shipments from Dhaka to the UK and the EU, forcing exporters to re-screen goods in third countries -- a costly and disruptive process.

Since then, CAAB and airport authorities have upgraded infrastructure, equipment, and training, introducing advanced security systems such as Explosive Detection Systems (EDS) and Explosive Detection Dogs (EDD) for cargo operations.

Officials said the outstanding scores demonstrate that Bangladesh has successfully overcome past challenges.

"This recognition from the UK assures global partners that our aviation and cargo security meet international expectations," the CAAB statement added, noting that it will bolster confidence among foreign airlines, regulators, and investors while reducing the risk of future trade barriers.

FP/MI