Dhaka Airport’s passenger number up 7pc to 12.5m in 2024

Dhaka: The number of passengers traveling through Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in the capital increased by seven per cent in 2024 to 12.5 million including both domestic and international travelers. It may be mentioned here, the passenger number facilitated by Dhaka Airport in 2023 was 11.7 million.

Dhaka Airport’s data also shows a 3.51 per cent increase in domestic travellers, with 76,917 more passengers compared to 2023, according to reports. Number of domestic flights reduced by 8,106, while international flights increased by 1,125 during the same period.

However, the political unrest that ousted the former government in July came in the way of air travel for a while last year. Following the political turmoil, several countries, including India, imposed restrictions on visa issuance for Bangladeshis.

On the other hand, travel alerts by Europe, Japan, the UK and the US advising against visiting Bangladesh initially made foreign travelers reluctant to travel to the country.

Nevertheless, industry insiders claimed, the impact of the unrest was less than anticipated, and after September, the situation went back to normal.

Moreover, outbound tour operators reported increased travel to South Asian and Southeast Asian countries from Bangladesh, including Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Malaysia.

Migrant workers played a vital role behind the eight per cent increase in international traveler number, according to reports. Bangladesh sent abroad over one million migrant workers in 2024. Of the migrant workers, thousands return home each year on annual leave.

Dhaka Airport underwent other significant developments too in 2024. The luggage receiving time was reduced, and a lounge for expatriate workers was opened, said reports citing the airport authorities.

The airport has also launched a one-stop service to facilitate the easy collection of deceased bodies for families, added reports. Once Terminal Three opens, airport authorities expect to further improve passenger service.