Photo : Collected
The private airline sector shows promise despite past challenges. Over the last 25 years, the country has seen the launch of at least 10 airlines, but 8 have closed due to various crises. However, despite these setbacks, the sector is instilling hope. Currently, there are three privately operated airlines in operation. Air Astra entered the market in 2022 alongside US-Bangla and NovoAir. Another airline, Fly Dhaka, is set to join by the end of this year. US-Bangla has emerged as the most popular choice for domestic and international travel.
Experts observe a significant shift in people's socio-economic status over time. The unavailability of tickets on domestic routes during Eid highlights the increasing demand for air travel. This trend underscores the considerable potential within the aviation sector. With improved passenger services and effective management, there is optimism for growth.
Aviation expert Kazi Wahidul Alam, speaking to the Daily Messenger, highlighted Bangladesh's historically robust private aviation sector. He noted that while government regulations and internal challenges have led to the closure of several airlines in the past, there are currently thriving businesses within the industry. The success of these airlines has increased the interest of potential investors, signaling a positive outlook for the sector's growth.
He emphasised that Bangladesh, positioned as the leading nation in South Asia, could experience further expansion if the government institutes policy changes.
Group Captain M Kamrul Islam, the Executive Director of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the sector's promising potential. He acknowledged that while mismanagement led to the closure of some airlines in the past, success stories like US-Bangla Airlines' turnaround demonstrate optimism for the industry's future.
He expressed optimism about Novoair's performance and highlighted the potential of the recently launched Air Astra. Anticipating positive outcomes from Fly Dhaka's entry into the market, he emphasised that increased competition would enhance service quality and ensure passenger satisfaction. Responding to queries, he noted that despite past closures, investors are drawn to the sector by the success of existing and upcoming airlines. He forecasted a promising future for the aviation industry as more players enter the market, enhancing its potential.
According to the related sources, NovoAir started passenger transport by operating flights from Dhaka to Chattogram on January 9, 2013. As such the airline has completed 12 years. NovoAir was awarded Best Domestic Airlines in 2014, Best Domestic Airlines in 2019, Best Ontime Performance Airlines in 2022 and 2023 by the fortnightly travel magazine The Bangladesh Monitor.
NovoAir media and marketing executive Niladri Maharatna told Daily Messenger that currently NovoAir operates 32 flights on Dhaka-Kolkata and domestic routes. The number of aircraft in their fleet is 5. The process of adding more aircraft is underway.
Meanwhile, US-Bangla Airlines has risen to a unique height in terms of passenger service quality. The US-Bangla fleet has a total of 24 aircraft, including two Airbus 330-300s which Bangladesh Biman does not have. US-Bangla Airlines started its journey on 17th July 2014 and is now crossing 10 years.
Kamrul Islam, General Manager of Public Relations Department of US Bangla Airlines told Daily Messenger, US-Bangla Airlines is currently operating flights to Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Muscat, Singapore, Bangkok, Male, Guangzhou, Chennai and Kolkata in addition to the international routes Kuala Lumpur and Dubai.
Air Astra commenced flights on the Dhaka-Cox's Bazar route on November 24, 2022, expanding its existing routes covering Dhaka, Chattogram, and Rangpur. United Airways initiated flight operations in 2007 but ceased operations abruptly in 2016, leaving eight aircraft grounded at the airport. Regent Airways also ceased operations in 2022, joining a list of defunct airlines including Aero Bengal, Air Parabat, Royal Bengal, Air Bangladesh, GMG Airlines, and Best Air. Notably, GMG, Regent, and United Airlines operated international flights among the mentioned airlines.
Messenger/Fameema
