Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has withdrawn Saiful Haq Shah, director of personnel licensing, examination and training, amid ongoing investigation into alleged pilot licensing fraud.

Information was disclosed by CAAB on Sunday, March 15.

Order signed by CAAB Assistant Director (Administration) Mohammad Tiran Hossain on Thursday, March 12, attached Shah to CAAB headquarters.

However, CAAB did not confirm whether his withdrawal was directly related to fraud allegations. Authorities remained tight-lipped about specific reasons behind the administrative action.

CAAB sources confirmed that investigation was underway regarding allegations of fraudulent license issuance to Biman Bangladesh Airlines pilots. Shah was responsible for pilot licenses, examinations and training.

He has been placed on stand release effective from March 12. Authorities also requested his casual leave account details.

Personnel Licensing, Examination and Training officer primarily handles license issuance and renewal for pilots, air traffic controllers, flight engineers and various aviation professionals. Position also involves organizing and supervising written and oral examinations for licenses, monitoring approved training institutions and maintaining relevant records.

Responsible CAAB sources revealed that information recently emerged regarding fraudulent license issuance to four Biman Bangladesh Airlines pilots. Separate committees were formed at both Biman and CAAB following the incident. Investigation implicated Saiful Haq Shah's involvement.

Move comes as aviation sector faces increased scrutiny over regulatory compliance and safety standards. Pilot licensing fraud poses serious threats to aviation safety and could undermine Bangladesh's aviation credibility internationally.

CAAB’s action signals zero tolerance approach toward licensing irregularities affecting national carrier's operations and reputation.