Concerns are growing among airlines and passengers over Biman Bangladesh Airlines' ground handling services, with experts questioning its ability to manage operations at the new third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Biman Bangladesh Airlines claims to be offering international standard ground handling services, not only for its own flights but also for approximately 35 other domestic and international airlines. But, experts have raised doubts about its ability to handle operations at the new third terminal. What is Ground Handling? Ground handling refers to a range of services provided to aircraft and passengers at airports, including the issuing of boarding passes, baggage handling, cargo loading and unloading and general aircraft servicing. Jatiya Nagorik Committee reorganised to expand activities Since 1972, Biman Bangladesh Airlines has been the sole provider of ground handling services at all airports in the country. In addition to its own flights, Biman provides ground handling services to a variety of foreign and local carriers. Biman to Take Over Third Terminal Ground Handling Biman Bangladesh Airlines was recently informed that it would be responsible for managing ground handling services at the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for the next two years. This decision was communicated through a letter issued by the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Authority under the Office of the Chief Adviser. According to the letter, Biman will handle ground services at the third terminal for the next two years. If Biman fails to meet expectations within this period, the airline may have to share the responsibility with a renowned international company. AKDN's resident representative discusses education and climate change initiatives with Foreign Adviser Complaints from Foreign Airlines Foreign airlines have raised several complaints about Biman’s ground handling services. It is the responsibility of ground handlers to provide adequate staffing for check-in counters, baggage services, cargo handling, and other related tasks at the airport. But, Biman faces difficulties providing enough staff due to a shortage of workers. As a result, several foreign airlines have been forced to hire their own ground handling staff at additional cost. For example, Air Arabia has recruited over 30 staff members at the airport, while Indigo and Singapore Airlines have hired 25 and 60 personnel, respectively. In recent hearings by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), several foreign airlines have accused Biman of failing to deliver timely ground handling services despite collecting charges. Delays in baggage delivery have resulted in flight delays, while passengers have expressed frustration with delayed baggage handling, tarnishing the reputation of various airlines. Passenger Complaints There are frequent reports from passengers regarding poor treatment, delayed baggage and incidents of theft at the hands of ground handling staff. One such case this year involved a passenger flying to Chennai, whose bag was found to be missing €6,800 (approximately Tk 910,000). TIB emphasises going beyond the rule of law to prevent corruption Biman authorities arrested five people in connection with the theft. A passenger from Saudi Arabia also voiced concerns, stating that receiving baggage at Dhaka airport often feels like "finding a golden deer." He expressed concerns about the possibility of items being stolen or damaged in transit. While his baggage was intact on this occasion, it still took a long time to be returned. Expert Opinions Aviation expert Wing Commander ATM Nazrul Islam also expressed concerns about Biman’s ability to handle ground services at the new terminal. While he acknowledged that Biman may have the necessary equipment, he pointed out that the airline lacks sufficient manpower. Nazrul Islam said that Biman is already struggling to manage the operations of Terminals 1 and 2, and questioned whether it could manage an entire terminal alone. He stressed that while the airline may be capable of meeting the technical requirements for ground handling, the public perception of Biman's service quality remains poor. As Biman takes over the third terminal, experts are keenly watching to see how it handles the challenges and whether it can meet international standards. Fellow expert Kazi Wahidul Alam said that in most airports around the world, ground handling is not the responsibility of a single organisation. Dr Yunus urges India to clear recent "clouds" over bilateral relations In Bangladesh, Biman monopolises ground handling across all airports. He also expressed doubts about whether Biman could properly manage ground services at the new terminal. Mofizur Rahman, Secretary General of the Aviation Operators Association of Bangladesh and Managing Director of Novoair, suggested that the monopoly on ground handling should be broken. He advocated for opening up ground handling services to multiple companies via a competitive tendering process, which could ultimately benefit both the country and the industry. Government Response In response to these concerns, Hassan Arif, an advisor to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, stated that Biman is in the process of acquiring new equipment to improve its ground handling capabilities. He reassured that Biman’s performance would be closely monitored during the two-year trial period. If the airline’s performance falls short, alternative arrangements will be made. Arif also emphasised the importance of ensuring that ground handling services meet international standards. Adequate training for staff and the resolution of manpower shortages would be priorities in the coming months. Regarding the timeline for the third terminal's opening, Arif stated that construction is in the final stages, and the terminal is expected to be operational within a year. In a similar vein, Air Vice Marshal Mohammad Manjur Kabir Bhuiyan, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), assured that efforts are underway to ensure that the new terminal’s services meet modern standards. He also stressed that international quality in ground handling would be prioritised, ensuring that complaints from airlines and passengers are kept to a minimum. As Biman takes on the responsibility of managing ground handling services at the third terminal, all eyes will be on the airline’s ability to address existing shortcomings and deliver on its promises of international standard services.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines Limited has released revised notification for recruitment of manpower. This organization will employ 525 people in 3 category posts. Interested candidates should apply online. 1. Post Name: Ground Service Assistant No. of Posts: 380 Eligibility: Bachelor's degree with 2.8 on CGPA-4 scale 3.0 on GPA-5 scale in each of SSC and HSC examination or 2.8 on GPA-4 scale for Diploma degree holders. A minimum of 'D' average in any five subjects at 'O' level and minimum 'D' average in any two subjects at 'A' level. Must have computer knowledge. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word. Must be proficient in speaking English. Uttara High School and College Center who were scheduled for examination under recruitment circular dated 17th April 2023 need not apply afresh. They can participate in the exam in the previous application. Age: Below 32 years as on 12 April 2024 Type of Job: Initially three years contractual. Will be permanently assimilated from the date of joining after satisfactory completion of three years contractual service. Read: Job Circular: Land Ministry to recruit 278 deputy assistant settlement officers Pay Scale: 12,500-30,230 Tk. 2. Post Name: Commercial Assistant No. of Posts: 100 Eligibility: Bachelor's degree with 2.8 on CGPA-4 scale. 3.0 on GPA-5 scale each in SSC and HSC examination or 2.8 on GPA-4 scale for Diploma holders A minimum of 'D' average in any five subjects at 'O' level and minimum 'D' average in any two subjects at 'A' level. Must have computer knowledge. Must be proficient in Microsoft Word. Must be proficient in speaking English. Age: Below 32 years as on 12 April 2024 Type of Job: Initially three years contractual. Will be permanently assimilated from the date of joining after satisfactory completion of three years contractual service. Pay Scale: 12,500-30,230 Tk. 3. Post Name: Accounts Assistant No. of Posts: 45 Eligibility: Bachelor's Degree in Commerce Faculty with 2.8 on CGPA-4 scale. 3.0 on GPA-5 scale in each of SSC and HSC examination or 2.8 on GPA-4 scale for Diploma degree holders. A minimum of 'D' average in any five subjects at 'O' level and minimum 'D' average in any two subjects at 'A' level. Must have computer knowledge. Age: Below 32 years as on 12 April 2024 Type of Job: Initially three years contractual. Permanent assimilation will be made from the date of joining after satisfactory completion of three years contractual service. Pay Scale: 12,500-30,230 Tk. How to apply Interested candidates should apply by filling the form on this website. Detailed information regarding recruitment can be known in this link https://biman.gov.bd/sites/default/files/files/biman-airlines.portal.gov.bd/notices/bff705be_23c5_440a_95ee_9a8bd0c57240/2024-12-03-04-01-a4b882b024edb054e2fa1e79f0e865c0.pdf  . If there is any problem in applying online, call 121 from teletalk number or email at [email protected]. Application fee 335 Tk for each post towards examination fee through SMS from Teletalk prepaid mobile number within 72 hours of online form filling. Application Deadline: 4 to 18 December 2024, up to 5 PM.

Captain Tasmin Doza has made history as the first female director at Biman Bangladesh Airlines, following her appointment as the Director of Flight Operations. The airline's General Manager of Public Relations, Bosra Islam, confirmed the news to UNB, noting that her appointment took effect on Monday. New Biman CEO vows to crack down on corruption Captain Tasmin's journey with Biman began in 1993 when she joined as a cadet pilot. In 1996, she was promoted to First Officer on advanced turboprop aircraft. Between 2004 and 2009, she served as the Base Training and Line Check Captain for the Fokker F-28 aircraft. She later became a check pilot for Biman's Boeing 737 fleet from 2014 to 2019. In addition to her extensive flying experience, Captain Tasmin has held significant leadership roles. She has served as the Team Leader of Flight Data Monitoring and as a Flight Operations Inspector for the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). Most recently, she was the Chief of Training in Biman's Flight Operations Department.

The construction of the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka is set to be completed by October this year, with flight operations expected to begin in early 2025, officials from the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) have confirmed. According to CAAB, the third terminal’s construction is in its final stages and is on track to be completed by the October deadline. The Civil Aviation Authority will take over the terminal from the contractor in October, following which the process of scheduling flights from the new terminal will commence early next year. Following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, uncertainty arose over the timely completion of the terminal. However, the interim government soon restored normalcy to the construction process. The striking design of the third terminal building has drawn attention in the project area, with finishing touches underway both inside and outside the facility. Read more: Target set for Dhaka Airport Third Terminal's full functionality by December 2024: CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Monjur Kabir Bhuiyan, Chairman of CAAB, recently inspected the progress of the third terminal. He directed the officials and workers involved in the project to ensure timely completion with a high standard of work. “About 98% of the work on the third terminal has already been completed, and overall progress is satisfactory. I have instructed those involved to finish the remaining tasks promptly,” Air Vice Marshal Monjur told UNB. “We expect all work to be completed by October. After taking over the terminal from the contractor, we will prepare to launch flight operations.” Consultancy firm Nippon Koei has estimated that around 6,000 skilled workers will be needed for the operation, maintenance, and security of the terminal, with nearly 4,000 of them required for security alone. However, CAAB officials said that it might take a few months to recruit the necessary workforce, meaning the terminal may not be fully operational immediately. Initially, CAAB and Biman Bangladesh Airlines will manage the terminal, with full operations likely to begin in February next year. Once operational, the third terminal will increase Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s passenger handling capacity by an additional 12 million passengers annually. Currently, the airport’s first and second terminals manage between 120 to 130 flights of more than 30 airlines daily, serving around 20,000 passengers. This equates to a capacity of approximately 8 million passengers per year. The new terminal will add 230,000 square meters of space to the airport, featuring 115 check-in counters, 66 departure and 59 arrival immigration desks, and three VIP immigration desks. It will also include 27 baggage screening machines, 40 security scanners, 12 boarding bridges, 16 carousels, and 11 body scanners. The construction project, launched by the government in 2017, began on December 28, 2019, with an estimated cost of Tk 21,398 crore. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is providing Tk 16,141 crore as a loan, with the remaining funds coming from the Bangladesh government. The construction is being carried out by Japan’s Mitsubishi and Fujita and South Korea’s Samsung. CAAB officials noted that once completed, the terminal will accommodate 37 aircraft at a time and feature two high-speed taxiways to reduce waiting times on the runway. Two buildings have also been constructed for import and export cargo operations. A three-story parking facility for 1,350 vehicles is nearing completion. Initially, 12 out of the 26 boarding bridges will be operational, with 15 self-service check-in counters and 10 automated passport control counters available for departing passengers. The terminal has been designed to ensure smooth entry and exit for passengers. It will be connected to the elevated expressway, and airport railway station via a tunnel. Hajj pilgrims will also have a dedicated tunnel from the Ashkona Hajj Camp to the third terminal. Last year, on October 7, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina partially inaugurated the terminal as part of her government’s development efforts ahead of the national elections. At that time, the government had announced that flights would operate from the third terminal by October this year. Read more: Govt will decide on ground handling at Dhaka airport’s third terminal and Biman is ready: CEO

Biman Bangladesh Airlines could be expanding its fleet with new aircraft from Airbus. Outgoing Managing Director and CEO of the national flag carrier, Shafiul Azim, made the indication during a views exchange meeting with the Aviation and Tourism Journalists’ Forum of Bangladesh (ATJFB) today (May 29, 2024). The meeting, held in Dhaka, saw the participation of ATJFB members led by their president, Tanzim Anwar. Addressing the forum, the outgoing Biman MD said that Airbus had proposed two offers to Biman for aircraft procurement. “Initially, Airbus offered us two cargo planes, but we decided we do not need them at the moment. Instead, we expressed our interest in expanding our passenger fleet. Subsequently, Airbus proposed four passenger aircraft, which was a better offer. This proposal has been evaluated by the committee and forwarded to the board for approval,” Azim explained. He emphasized the importance of diversifying their fleet, noting that currently, 16 out of 21 large aircraft in Biman’s fleet are from Boeing. “We are considering Airbus’s offers seriously. Diversifying our aircraft will not only mitigate risk but also appeal to passengers who appreciate newer models,” Azim said. Airbus leading in Bangladesh’s aircraft purchase consideration over Boeing? Regarding Boeing, Azim mentioned that they also received an offer from Boeing, which will be evaluated. “We have a longstanding relationship with Boeing, not just in terms of aircraft procurement but also their technical support and credit facilities. We are working well together,” he added. Azim highlighted Biman’s advantageous position due to the competitive proposals from both Airbus and Boeing. He assured that regardless of the manufacturer chosen, Biman stands to benefit as a customer. When asked about the financial status of Biman, Azim confidently stated that Biman has been “profitable for eight out of the last ten years.” The two years of losses included one year heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and another due to significant payment obligations. “Despite challenges such as dollar shortages and ongoing global conflicts, we have remained profitable,” the Biman MD said. He further defended Biman’s financial health, pointing out that regular audits have confirmed their profitability. “We continue to hire, pay salaries and bonuses, including profit bonuses. If Biman wasn’t profitable, where would this money come from? To those who doubt our success, I pray they find guidance,” he remarked. PM’s likely Visit to Paris: France hopes significant progress on purchase from Airbus, satellite Reflecting on his tenure, Azim expressed satisfaction with his management approach. “During my time, I never hesitated to reward deserving employees or to impose necessary disciplinary actions. I have used my authority to the fullest and believe that with effort, Biman can compete with the world’s leading airlines,” he stated. Addressing the frequent changes in Biman’s leadership, Azim underscored the need for a stable management system. “Our human and technical resources are competent. If systems and structures are in place, the organization won’t rely on any single individual. I have focused on establishing these systems,” he noted. He also recommended retaining experienced personnel in technical fields, regardless of age, as experience grows with time. “Biman should not function with the mindset of a government office; it is a commercial entity and should be managed commercially,” Azim advised. He expressed a slight regret, wishing that four new aircraft could have been added to Biman’s fleet during his tenure. Read more: Jahidul Islam Bhuiyan appointed as MD of Biman On May 26, the Ministry of Public Administration announced Md. Jahidul Islam Bhuiyan as the new Managing Director and CEO of Biman Bangladesh Airlines. In a separate announcement, Shafiul Azim was promoted to Secretary of the Election Commission.

National carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines announced the suspension of its flights to Cox's Bazar for Sunday (May 26, 2024) due to Cyclonic storm Remal. Besides, flights of BG395 and BG391 to Kolkata will remain suspended on Sunday and Monday, respectively, said Bosra Islam, general manager of the Public Relations Wing of Biman Bangladesh Airlines. Cyclone Remal: Chittagong Port Authority issues alert 3 Earlier, Bangladesh Meteorological Department asked the Payra and Mongla maritime ports to hoist danger Signal 7 and danger Signal 6 for Cox's Bazar and Chattogram seaports. According to the BMD, the deep depression over east-central Bay and adjoining west-central Bay moved northwards, and intensified into a cyclonic storm "Remal" over northwest Bay and adjoining area on Saturday evening. Depression intensifies into cyclone:  Remal now on its way

Biman Bangladesh Airlines commenced its dedicated Hajj flights this morning, marking the beginning of its annual service to transport pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia for the holy Hajj. The inaugural flight, BG3301, departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at 7 am, carrying 415 pilgrims directly to Jeddah. The event began with a ceremony at 5:30 am, attended by key figures including Md Faridul Haque Khan, Minister of Religious Affairs; Sajjadul Hassan, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Civil Aviation and Tourism; Air Vice Marshal Md Mafidur Rahman, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB); Shafiul Azim, Managing Director and CEO of Biman Bangladesh Airlines; and Md Shahadat Hossain Taslim, President of the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB). PM inaugurates Hajj programme-2024 This year, a record number of 85,257 Bangladeshi pilgrims will journey to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj, with Biman Bangladesh Airlines handling approximately 50% of these travelers, totaling 42,629 pilgrims. To accommodate this massive undertaking, Biman has scheduled 116 pre-Hajj flights and 125 post-Hajj flights. Furthermore, the airline has expanded its service to include flights from Sylhet and Chattogram, enhancing access and convenience for pilgrims across Bangladesh. Biman Bangladesh Airlines continues to operate these flights exclusively with its own fleet, underscoring its capability and readiness to manage the logistical demands of Hajj travel. Read more: Visitors on Hajj visa prohibited from traveling outside Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca: Saudi Ministry

A crack in the cockpit windshield of a Biman Bangladesh Airlines Dreamliner prompted the pilot to return the Boeing 787-9 plane to Dhaka two hours after take-off. Gas supply to improve in Dhaka, adjacent areas in a day or two : Nasrul The 285 passengers and 12 crew members, destined for Dammam in Saudi Arabia, remained safe during the incident on Saturday afternoon, said Tahera Khondker, a spokesperson for the national carrier. Captain Tania Reza, the flight's captain, detected the crack and communicated with the control tower before deciding to return to Shahjalal International Airport. Mild cold wave persists across Dhaka, Rangpur, and Rajshahi divisions

The 12th Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Fair is all set to kick off on 1st February at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in Dhaka. Fish meat, and eggs to be sold at affordable prices ahead of Ramadan:Minister Biman Bangladesh Airlines will be the title sponsor of this year's fair, reads a media release of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (Toab), the organiser of the three-day fair. Ferry sank as bulkhead hit it, says state minister for Shipping Tourism companies, tour operators, travel agents, hotels, resorts, amusement parks and transport companies from home and abroad will participate in the fair supported by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation and Bangladesh Tourism Board. Weather Update: Will it rain in Dhaka? The fair will accommodate 150 stalls of around 100 different organisations.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines will start operating Dhaka-Rome flights from March next year, Biman MD and CEO Shafiul Azim said today (December 21, 2023). He was speaking at the ATJFB dialogue, organised by the Aviation and Tourism Journalist Forum of Bangladesh, at the Biman Training Centre in Dhaka. All Biman employees to get 5% allowance as ‘special incentive’ Mohammad Salahuddin, director (marketing) of Biman, said, "We discontinued the Dhaka-Rome flight after 2009. Now it will be resumed, for which GSA has been appointed, and ground-handling has been finalised.” “We can operate direct flights to Rome, Italy or via another country. We are studying it. It will take 9-10 hours for the direct flight to reach Rome,” he said. Biman commences flights on Dhaka-Chennai route For possible transition points, he mentioned Kuwait or Dubai. However, nothing is finalised, he said. ATJFB President and Special Correspondent of BSS, Md Tanzim Anwar, moderated the dialogue. ATJFB General Secretary and Bangla Vision Special Correspondent Ziaul Haque Sabuj delivered the welcome speech. London-bound Biman makes emergency landing in Sofia to save ailing passenger Senior officials of Biman and ATJFB members were present in the dialogue.