Airport handled 1 crore 27 lakh passengers in 2025 despite operating at double capacity with persistent infrastructure challenges

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) recorded a passenger growth of nearly 2 lakh 23 thousand last year, handling 1 crore 27 lakh 2 thousand travellers compared to 1 crore 25 lakh in 2024.

In 2025, the airport handled 24 lakh 11 thousand domestic passengers and 1 crore 3 lakh 12 thousand international passengers, bringing the total passenger traffic to 1 crore 27 lakh 23 thousand, HSIA’s Executive Director Group Captain S. M. Ragib Samad told Aviation express today.

Growth of approximately 1.8% was driven primarily by international travel, with Bangladesh sending 11 lakh 30 thousand workers abroad during the year. Of total passengers, 1 crore 3 lakh 12 thousand travelled on international routes while 24 lakh 11 thousand flew domestically, underlining the airport's heavy dependence on overseas traffic.

However, steady growth has further exposed long-standing infrastructure limitations. Originally designed to handle around 80 lakh passengers annually, airport now operates at nearly double its intended capacity. Officials acknowledged rising passenger load places immense pressure on operations, particularly during peak travel seasons.

Much-anticipated third terminal remains non-operational due to unresolved issues over operator appointment. Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism (MoCAT) has left the matter to next elected government. Once fully operational, terminal is expected to increase capacity to over 2 crore passengers yearly and significantly improve passenger flow and service delivery.

The HISA authority said that they are trying to provide best possible services within existing capacity.

Expatriate Welfare Adviser Asif Nazrul announced VIP services for migrant workers in early days of interim government. Implementation has largely been limited to opening two lounges, one inside terminal offering rest areas and subsidised meals, and another in multi-storey car park.