Technology-driven solutions and integrated working methods were stressed today to address passenger processing delays, coordination gaps and procedural limitations at the country’s airports.

The emphasis came at the 9th meeting of the National Air Transport Facilitation Committee (NATFC) held at the headquarters of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).

CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md. Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq presided over the meeting, while CAAB Member (Security) Air Commodore Md. Asif Iqbal attended as member secretary.

Senior representatives from different ministries, Bangladesh Police, Immigration, National Board of Revenue, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Airlines Operating Committee and CAAB joined the meeting.

According to ICAO Annex-9, every member state is required to establish an effective national-level Air Transport Facilitation Committee and hold regular meetings.

The committee aims to ensure smooth, speedy and orderly movement of passengers, baggage and cargo in international civil aviation through coordinated actions among relevant agencies.

The meeting observed that simplification of passenger services, reduction of unnecessary procedural complexities, improvement in information exchange and stronger inter-agency coordination are essential for building a modern aviation environment.

It also noted that improved facilitation measures directly contribute to greater airport operational efficiency, better passenger service and effective time management.

In his speech, the CAAB chairman said facilitation and aviation security are interrelated and complementary.

He said proper facilitation management helps implement security measures more effectively, contributing to a disciplined, safe and passenger-friendly airport environment.

The meeting also stressed effective implementation of decisions, regular progress reviews and stronger monitoring mechanisms so that NATFC can play a more effective coordinating role in enhancing the country’s aviation sector.

Officials said the initiatives would help maintain international standards, improve passenger services, strengthen inter-ministerial coordination and support preparations for the upcoming ICAO USAP-CMA audit.