Bangladesh airports see improved security scores in UK audit

Bangladesh's international airports have shown improved security scores following a recent audit by the UK Department for Transport (DfT). Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport achieved a 94% score, up from 93% last year, while Osmani International Airport in Sylhet reached 98%, an increase from 94%. The audit evaluated security for UK-bound flights, passengers, cargo, and mail, with Bangladesh achieving 100% compliance in the ‘additional measures assessment’ for cargo security.

These improvements aim to bolster confidence among airlines and businesses and may accelerate efforts to have the European Union lift the 2017 ‘High Risk Cargo and Mail’ (HRCM) restrictions. Such a lifting would reduce time and costs for cargo and mail destined for the EU.

Despite these technical improvements, reports indicate ongoing operational chaos at the exterior of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Issues include unregulated access by large groups of relatives, unauthorized persons, and drivers entering restricted areas, alongside disorganized vehicle parking. Although national security committees have issued directives to limit visitors and strengthen checkpoints, observers note that significant changes have not yet materialized on the ground.