In a statement to parliament on Wednesday, Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Afroza Khanam stated that the complete initiation of international operations at Cox's Bazar Airport will require an additional few months following its upgrade to international norms.

The minister made this statement in response to a scripted question posed by Shahjahan Chowdhury (Cox's Bazar-4) of the ruling party in the Jatiya Sangsad on Wednesday.

Afroza said that several key steps have already been taken to facilitate the commencement of international flights from the airport.

To this end, certification has been obtained from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) after ensuring compliance with international rules, regulations, and operational suitability.

To ensure the safe landing and takeoff of wide-body aircraft at full load, as well as to improve the overall operational capacity, the runway at Cox's Bazar Airport has been extended from 9,000 feet to 10,700 feet with a view to the sea.

Additionally, a new international terminal building with a total floor area of 17,955 square meters has been constructed to facilitate international flight operations. Currently, the terminal is in the process of being tested and commissioned, and it is equipped with all necessary operational facilities.

According to the minister, it will require an additional few months to finalize these procedures and ensure that the airport is fully operational for international trips.

Source: BSS