Construction work of the third terminal at HazratShahjalal International Airport is progressing well with an impressive completion rate of 77.5 percent. The project is on track for its soft opening in October.
Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) Air Vice Marshal MdMofidur Rahman during a press conference at the airport on Tuesday expressed his satisfaction with the progress, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the timely completion of the project.
Despite the soft opening in October, the terminal is expected to be fully functional by 2024. The CAAB chairman highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating that the third terminal construction project is reaching its final stages of implementation, with utmost importance placed on its
timely completion.
Construction activities are taking place round the clock, with dedicated workers laboring tirelessly, including during the ongoing Eid holidays. Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 workers are committed to continuing their efforts, ensuring progress is not hindered. Chairman Mofidur Rahman expressed optimism, aiming to achieve 90 percent completion of the project before the soft opening in October.
Spanning an area of 542,000 square meters, the third terminal boasts aprons capable of accommodating up to 37 aircraft simultaneously. The terminal building itself will cover an impressive 230,000 square meters and will incorporate state-of-the-art technologies from around the world.
Notably, the terminal will feature a rapid exit and connecting taxiway, as well as a main road adjacent to Le Meridian Hotel for convenient access to the airport. Furthermore, plans are underway to construct a subway connecting the Dhaka Elevated Expressway to the airport, further enhancing transportation options for travelers. The project received approval from ECNEC in October 2017.
The initiative for the third terminal dates back to 2015 when a feasibility study report was presented to the Prime Minister's Office. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, recognizing the importance of the project, directed the authorities to expedite its implementation. Upon completion, HazratShahjalal International Airport will have the capacity to handle 0.8 million passengers and 0.2 million tonnes of cargo annually.
The CAAB chairman concluded the briefing by expressing his hopes for the successful soft opening of the third terminal during the first week of October, aligning with the government's decision. He further emphasized the commitment to completing the project ahead of schedule, as the authorities strive to deliver an outstanding facility for the benefit of passengers and the aviation industry.
With the third terminal nearing completion, HazratShahjalal International Airport is poised to expand its capacity and enhance the travel experience, cementing its status as a crucial hub for air travel in the region.
