CAAB to resume Third Terminal talks with Japan on March 11

Dhaka: Negotiations over the operation of the Third Terminal at Dhaka Airport are expected to resume on March 11, when a Japanese delegation arrives in the capital for talks with the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).

The meeting, scheduled to take place at the foreign ministry, aims to resolve the ongoing deadlock between CAAB and a Japanese consortium that is expected to operate the new terminal. The consortium includes Japan Airport Terminal Company, Sumitomo Corporation, Sojitz Corporation, and Narita International Airport Corporation.

Officials say the two sides have yet to finalize an agreement due to differences over operational costs and the sharing of revenue generated by the terminal. The discussions are seen as crucial for breaking the impasse and moving the project closer to full operation.

Earlier, on February 22, Tarique Rahman instructed officials during a high-level meeting at the Cabinet Division to sit down with the Japanese partners and try to resolve the issue within this month.

Aviation experts warn that prolonged delays could increase costs, as warranties for installed equipment may expire and loan repayments are set to begin soon.

Reports cited CAAB’s Member (Operations and Planning) Air Commodore Abu Sayeed Mehboob Khan saying, progress will depend on whether the visiting delegation presents any new proposals during the upcoming discussions.