The country's aviation industry is growing rapidly during present government. The growth of Bangladesh's aviation sector will be tripled in next 15 years.
Country's aviation market grew almost doubled in 10 years (from 2007-2017). Passenger and cargo transportation has grown at a rate of about 10 percent over the past 10 years. If this potential for huge growth in the aviation sector can be harnessed, it will create huge employment opportunities as well as improve the socio-economic condition of the country.
State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Md. Mahbub Ali made the remarks while addressing a programme organised at Jashore Airport on the occasion of inauguration of direct flights of US Bangla Airlines on Jashore-Chittagong and Jashore-Cox's Bazar routes. Later, the state minister inaugurated a direct flight of US Bangla Airlines on Syedpur-Chattogram route at another separate function at Syedpur Airport.
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Md. Mahbub Ali said, “The present government is working for the development of Bangladesh by giving importance to the aviation sector. Under the strong leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the aviation sector of the country has been continuously developing and advancing to international standards. The scope of air connectivity of the country is increasing through development and prosperity. Work is underway to ensure timely and expansion of aviation infrastructure across the country, increase passenger service, improve technical and public skills, and ensure safe and smooth aviation.”
“Various development works are underway in all domestic and international airports of the country. Following the progress, Jashore Airport will also be upgraded to international standard in the future. We have plans to buy cargo aircraft to export the country's agricultural products to the international market. As a result, flowers and agricultural products of Jashore will be exported to different countries,” he added.
The state minister said, “Private enterprises are getting confidence as the government has created the best environment for business and investment in the country. Investment in the aviation sector has also increased along with other businesses. In addition to the state-owned airlines, two private airlines are also doing well in business. They have gained the trust of the passengers through their services. Day by day, they are increasing the number of their destinations on international and domestic routes. The scope of their business is growing.”
Mahbub Ali thanked US Bangla Airlines for launching new routes to connect different districts by air. He said, “The growth in air connectivity would not only create easy and comfortable travel opportunities for the people but also help expand regional trade and commerce. It will also play an important role in reviving the tourism industry in the region and related destinations.”
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Members of Parliament Sheikh Afil Uddin, Anwarul Azim Anar, Md. Nasir Uddin, Air Commander of Bir Shrestha Matiur Rahman Air Base, Air Vice Marshal Md. Shafqat Ali, DIG of Khulna Range of Police Dr. Khandaker Mohid Uddin, Deputy Commissioner Md. Tamizul Islam Khan, Superintendent of Police Praloy Kumar Joardar and others spoke on the occasion while US Bangla chairman Abdullah Al Mamun presided over the programme at Jashore.
Syedpur Upazila Chairman Moksedul Momin, Municipality Chairman Rafika Akter Jahan, Nilphamari District Superintendent of Police Mokhlesur Rahman and Deputy Commissioner Hafizur Rahman Chowdhury also spoke at the event.
