Aviation Express has received the “TOAB International Tourism Award (TITA) 2026” in recognition of its outstanding contribution to tourism promotion through media.

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat handed over the award at the “TOAB International Tourism Award (TITA) 2026” at an event held at Sheraton Dhaka in the capital on Sunday evening. The event was organized by the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh.

Aviation Express received the prestigious award in the category of “Best Tourism Promotion in Media” for its sustained contribution to highlighting Bangladesh’s aviation, tourism, and expatriate sectors through specialized journalism and industry-focused coverage.

Speaking at the event, the state minister said the government is working to transform tourism into a major driver of employment and economic growth, with a target to raise the sector’s contribution to the national gross domestic product (GDP) to 8–9 percent in the coming years.

He said the government considers tourism not only as an important economic engine but also as an effective tool for employment generation, regional development, and cultural exchange.

Millat said an integrated tourism master plan has already been adopted covering the development and promotion of 1,498 tourist attractions across the country, incorporating eco-tourism, adventure tourism, religious tourism, and culture and heritage-based tourism.

He also invited policy recommendations from industry stakeholders to support reforms aimed at accelerating the development of the country’s tourism sector and expressed optimism about expanding tourism infrastructure through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives.

Founded as a specialised media platform for the aviation, tourism, and expatriate sectors, Aviation Express has built a strong presence through its fortnightly print and digital publications, delivering industry news, features, analysis, and exclusive coverage to a growing audience of aviation professionals, policymakers, corporate leaders, and travel stakeholders.

Earlier, the state minister handed over honorary medals to 13 organizations in 13 categories at TITA 2026 in recognition of their special contributions to the tourism sector.