Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia raise weekly passenger flights to 84

Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia have increased the number of permitted passenger flights between the two countries to 84 a week from 49 under a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two respective civil aviation authorities.

The agreement also allows 21 weekly cargo flights, fifth freedom traffic rights, code-sharing, co-terminalisation and aircraft leasing, Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq said today.

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Speaking to reporters at the CAAB headquarters, Siddiq said hajj and Umrah passengers were expected to be among the main beneficiaries, as the additional flights could help address increased passenger pressure, seat shortages and operational difficulties during the hajj season.

The arrangement would also benefit around 40 lakh Bangladeshis living and working in Saudi Arabia, he said. More flights and seats would provide greater travel options, while increased competition among airlines could create scope for more competitive fares.

Under the MoU, Saudi-designated airlines will have greater scope to operate flights to Chattogram and Sylhet, alongside Dhaka, opening the way for expanded direct connectivity with Riyadh, Dammam, Madinah and Jeddah.

Siddiq said the agreement also provides for 21 cargo flights a week, which could increase the capacity to transport Bangladeshi export goods, including readymade garments, fresh vegetables and fruits, to the Saudi market.

Under fifth freedom traffic rights, designated Bangladeshi airlines will also be able to operate cargo services through Saudi Arabia to specified destinations, including Spain and Germany.

The agreement further allows designated airlines, subject to necessary approvals, to enter into code-sharing and other commercial arrangements with airlines from their own country, the other party or a third country.

It also includes co-terminalisation, allowing airlines to serve multiple destinations within the same country on a single flight in accordance with local laws and regulations.

Airlines will also be allowed to use leased aircraft, including under wet-lease arrangements, giving them greater flexibility to increase capacity and operate additional flights during peak periods.

Siddiq said the agreement would expand cooperation between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia in passenger transport, hajj and Umrah operations, expatriate travel, cargo services, trade and airline partnerships.