3rd Terminal Dhaka Airport
The long-anticipated 3rd terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka is a significant development in Bangladesh’s aviation infrastructure. Slated for partial operation in 2024, the terminal is a critical step towards modernizing the country’s air travel capabilities, enhancing its position as a regional aviation hub, and meeting growing passenger demands.
Key Features and Modern Facilities
The new 3rd terminal is expected to transform the airport into a world-class facility, capable of handling increased passenger traffic and modernizing the travel experience. With its spacious design and advanced amenities, the terminal will feature:
1. Capacity Expansion: The 3rd terminal is designed to handle an additional 12 million passengers annually, significantly increasing the airport’s overall capacity. The total capacity of HSIA will reach around 20 million passengers per year after the terminal’s completion.
2. State-of-the-Art Technology: Equipped with the latest in airport technology, including modern baggage handling systems, advanced security screening facilities, and automated check-in and immigration systems, the 3rd terminal promises faster and smoother processing for passengers. Self-service kiosks, e-gates, and automated immigration processes will enhance both efficiency and safety.
3. Environmental Considerations: In line with global trends toward sustainability, the terminal will adopt eco-friendly design principles. It incorporates energy-efficient systems, water-saving technologies, and ample natural lighting, aiming to reduce the airport’s overall carbon footprint. There is also consideration for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.
4. Improved Passenger Comfort: With a floor space of around 230,000 square meters, the terminal offers a comfortable and spacious environment for travelers. The design includes multiple lounges, food courts, duty-free shopping areas, and recreational zones. Improved waiting areas, expanded baggage claim zones, and family-friendly facilities will add to the overall passenger experience.
5. Modern Cargo Handling: The new terminal is not only focused on passenger services but also aims to streamline cargo operations. It includes modern cargo facilities, improving the efficiency of cargo handling, storage, and logistics, catering to the increasing demand for air freight.
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Impact on Bangladesh’s Aviation Sector
The 3rd terminal project, with an estimated cost of $2.5 billion, is funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) along with contributions from the government of Bangladesh. This expansion aligns with the government’s Vision 2041 plan, which aims to make Bangladesh a middle-income country with modern infrastructure and facilities.
Boosting Tourism and Business: The upgraded airport will position Bangladesh as a more attractive destination for international tourists and business travelers. The improved airport services will complement the country’s efforts to promote tourism and create a favorable environment for foreign investment.
Regional Connectivity: With its strategic location between Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East, HSIA can potentially serve as a key transit point for airlines. The expansion will allow Dhaka to accommodate more international flights, including long-haul services, thereby enhancing its connectivity with major global cities.
Construction Progress and Future Plans
As of late 2023, the construction of the terminal is nearing completion, with essential facilities set to begin operations in 2024. Full-scale operations are expected to commence by 2025. The new terminal is part of a broader expansion plan for HSIA, which also includes runway and taxiway upgrades, expanded parking facilities, and improved transportation access to the airport.
The terminal is also expected to feature an aerobridge connecting to both domestic and international flights, further reducing the time passengers spend transferring between terminals.
Challenges and Expectations
While the 3rd terminal project has faced some delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other logistical hurdles, the overall progress has been commendable. The challenge now is to ensure the smooth integration of the new terminal with the existing airport operations and to provide adequate training for staff in managing the modernized systems.
Conclusion
The 3rd terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is a transformative project for Bangladesh’s aviation sector. Once completed, it will not only alleviate the strain on the existing infrastructure but also elevate the country’s position as a key player in regional air travel. By providing a world-class experience for passengers and airlines alike, the terminal is set to play a crucial role in Bangladesh’s economic and infrastructural growth for years to come.