বাংলাদেশ ও সৌদি আরবের মধ্যে বিমান চলাচল চুক্তিThe latest agreement between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia promises to revolutionize air travel between the two nations. Under the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the civil aviation authorities of both countries, the weekly passenger flights have been increased from 49 to 84. Additionally, the agreement includes provisions for 21 weekly cargo flights, Fifth Freedom Traffic Rights, code-sharing, co-terminalization, and aircraft leasing facilities.

At a press conference held at the headquarters of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) on Thursday, CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md. Mostofa Mahmud Siddique announced the details of the agreement. He stated that the new pact will allow designated airlines from both Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia to operate up to 84 passenger flights per week, a significant increase from the previous limit of 49. This expansion is expected to cater to the growing passenger demand between the two countries.

The benefits of this agreement will extend to the approximately 4 million Bangladeshis living and working in Saudi Arabia. The CAAB Chairman emphasized that the increase in flights and seat capacity will provide more opportunities for expatriate Bangladeshis to travel to and from their homeland. This is particularly beneficial for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, as it will help manage the increased passenger load, seat shortages, and operational complexities during peak seasons, ensuring a more organized and reliable Hajj flight operation.

Furthermore, the enhanced connectivity is anticipated to foster greater competition among airlines, potentially leading to more competitive and affordable airfares for passengers. The new agreement also opens avenues for the utilization of Bangladesh’s regional international airports, with designated Saudi airlines gaining the opportunity to expand their flight operations to Chittagong and Sylhet, thereby establishing direct connectivity with Riyadh, Dammam, Medina, and Jeddah.