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BD airports earn top marks in UK aviation security assessment

Dhaka, Sylhet score exceptional ratings


FE REPORT | October 13, 2025 00:00:00


The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has achieved an outstanding score during the airports assessment carried out by the Department for Transport (DfT), United Kingdom, in the month of August 2025.

According to a press release issued by the CAAB, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka has achieved an overall assessment score of 93 per cent while 100 per cent in the additional measures assessment (cargo), and the Osmani International Airport (OIA) in Sylhet has scored 94 per cent overall and 100 per cent for additional measures (cargo).

Muhammad Kawsar Mahmud, Assistant Director (Public Relations) of the CAAB issued the press release on Sunday.

The DfT inspection is a formal overseas security assessment used by the UK to verify that foreign airports meet required standards for passenger and cargo security and to verify any extra protective measures that the UK may ask for.

These visits are carried out by authorized DfT assessors and security specialists who observe operations on site, review procedures and test security-related systems.

CAAB said the results mark a milestone in Bangladesh's aviation security progress, underscoring its alignment with international best practices.

The agency recalled that in 2016, concerns over inadequate cargo screening led to restrictions on direct shipments from Dhaka to the UK and the EU, forcing exporters to re-screen goods in third countries, a costly and disruptive process.

Since then, CAAB and airport authorities have upgraded infrastructure, equipment, and training, introducing advanced security systems such as Explosive Detection Systems (EDS) and Explosive Detection Dogs (EDD) for cargo operations.

Officials said the outstanding scores demonstrate that Bangladesh has successfully overcome past challenges.

"This recognition from the UK assures global partners that our aviation and cargo security meet international expectations," the CAAB statement added, noting that it will bolster confidence among foreign airlines, regulators, and investors while reducing the risk of future trade barriers.

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