BD airport security improves markedly 

Bangladesh’s aviation security system has shown further improvement in the latest security audit conducted by the UK Department for Transport (DfT), with Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka scoring 94 percent and Osmani International Airport in Sylhet 98 percent.

Shahjalal scored 93 percent and Osmani 94 percent in the 2025 assessment. The latest results therefore represent a one-percentage-point improvement for Shahjalal and a four-percentage-point rise for Osmani over the past year.

The DfT audit reviewed various aspects of aviation security at the two airports, including passenger, cargo and mail security, with particular emphasis on arrangements for passengers and cargo bound for the United Kingdom.

Cargo security also recorded full compliance. The airports achieved 100 percent compliance in the Additional Measures Assessment for cargo, reflecting the implementation of enhanced security requirements through coordination among the relevant agencies.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) said the positive audit findings demonstrate continued progress in the country’s aviation security capabilities. The results are also expected to strengthen confidence among passengers, airlines, businesses, importers, exporters and other domestic and international stakeholders.

Bangladesh has been subject to additional security requirements under the European Union’s High Risk Cargo and Mail (HRCM) regime since 2017. The requirements impose additional security measures, processing time and costs on cargo and mail destined for Europe.

Bangladesh has raised the issue of lifting the HRCM-related restrictions with the relevant authorities. However, any change in HRCM status will depend on the EU’s own risk assessment and formal procedures.

The DfT audit findings are also considered relevant to preparations for the upcoming International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Universal Security Audit Programme�"Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) audit, scheduled for October 26 to November 6, 2026. The audit is expected to assess aviation security arrangements at CAAB headquarters, Shahjalal and Osmani airports.

CAAB Member (Security) Air Commodore Md Asif Iqbal said the achievement was the result of coordinated efforts by CAAB’s Aviation Security (AVSEC) Division, airport authorities and other stakeholders.