Civil aviation minister orders zero‑tolerance on Biman luggage theft

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita today directed officials of Biman Bangladesh Airlines to adopt a zero‑tolerance policy against luggage theft and ensure transparency in ticket sales management.

Speaking at a views‑exchange meeting at Balaka Bhaban, the minister warned that no leniency should be shown in such incidents and called for effective monitoring of flights departing with empty seats despite ticket shortages.

She instructed all employees to maintain respectful and professional conduct with passengers, particularly expatriate remittance earners. “Your salaries come from the money of ordinary passengers. Therefore, showing due respect to them is your moral responsibility,” she said.

Calling Biman a symbol of pride, the minister emphasised transforming the airlines into a modern, competitive, and passenger‑friendly airlines, announcing plans for performance‑based promotions, filling vacant posts quickly, and improving salaries and benefits.

She also directed that the upcoming Hajj operations be carried out smoothly, safely, and on time.

State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, who was also present at the time, said new aircraft could be inducted into the fleet by 2032, subject to agreements.

He instructed Biman to submit a comprehensive operations plan for 2026-2031.

The meeting reviewed Biman’s route network, fleet expansion, financial progress, service quality, and development plans, including increasing wheelchairs for elderly and special‑needs passengers, and strengthening international‑domestic connectivity.

Later, the ministers visited the Biman Flight Catering Centre (BFCC) to inspect cleanliness standards.