An Overview Of The Largest International Airport In Bangladesh

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport: The Gateway to Bangladesh

An Overview of the Largest International Airport in Bangladesh

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), formerly known as Zia International Airport, is the primary gateway to Bangladesh. Located 17 kilometers from Dhaka's city center, HSIA is the largest and busiest airport in the country.

History and Development

* HSIA was established in 1941 as a domestic airport. * In 1972, it was renamed after the Sufi saint Shahjalal. * The airport underwent significant expansion in the 1990s and 2000s. * In 2010, a new terminal was inaugurated, increasing the airport's capacity significantly.

Facilities and Services

HSIA offers a range of facilities and services to passengers, including: * Duty-free shops * Restaurants and cafes * Currency exchange counters * Prayer rooms * Medical facilities The airport is also connected to the city center by public transportation, including buses, trains, and taxis.

Airlines and Destinations

HSIA serves as a hub for several domestic and international airlines. It connects Bangladesh to over 50 destinations worldwide, including: * Domestic destinations: Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, Sylhet * International destinations: Bangkok, Dubai, London, New York, Singapore

Economic Impact

HSIA plays a vital role in the economy of Bangladesh. It serves as: * A major hub for tourism * A center for international trade * A gateway for foreign investment The airport's expansion and development have contributed to the growth of the country's transportation and tourism sectors.

Recent Developments

In recent years, HSIA has undertaken several projects to enhance its infrastructure and services. These include: * Expansion of the cargo terminal * Construction of a new runway * Implementation of biometric systems * Upgrade of the airport's technology and security measures