CAAB directs airlines to improve aircraft quality, passenger services

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has instructed domestic and foreign airlines operating in Bangladesh to improve aircraft cleanliness, passenger services and overall service standards, while keeping airfares reasonable.

In a letter issued on Wednesday, November 11, CAAB directed the airlines and the Airlines Operators Committee to take necessary measures to ensure international-standard passenger services on routes to and from Bangladesh.

The letter was signed by CAAB Member (Flight Standards and Regulations) Air Commodore Md Monirul Islam.

According to CAAB observations, some aircraft operating on Bangladesh routes are not being properly cleaned and maintained. Several instances of unclean passenger cabins, including seats, floors, carpets, toilets and tray tables, have been identified.

CAAB instructed airlines to thoroughly clean aircraft cabins before every flight and maintain hygienic conditions throughout all sections to ensure a comfortable environment for passengers.

The aviation regulator also observed that some airlines operate relatively lower-quality aircraft and provide inferior passenger services on Bangladesh routes compared with their other international routes.

To address the disparity, CAAB directed airlines to operate standard aircraft with adequate facilities, ensuring flight safety and passenger comfort on Bangladesh routes.

The authority also stressed that passengers travelling to and from Bangladesh must receive the same level of service and comfort that airlines provide on their other international routes.

Regarding airfares, CAAB expressed concern that fares on some routes are relatively high compared with travel distances and the services provided.

It asked airlines to review their fares based on route distances and service standards and take necessary steps to keep prices at reasonable levels.

The directives place particular emphasis on aircraft cleanliness, hygienic conditions, quality aircraft, reasonable fares and safe and comfortable passenger services.

CAAB also said it would conduct regular inspections to monitor the implementation of the instructions and assess the quality of passenger services.