Bangladesh is working towards resuming direct flights between Dhaka and New York next year, according to Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat.

The minister shared this plan during a courtesy meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen at his office in the Secretariat on Wednesday (September 16).

Minister Millat stated that this initiative has been undertaken considering the growing commercial and diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and the United States, alongside the travel needs of the large number of Bangladeshis residing in the US.

He noted that achieving 'Category-1' status under the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States' International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) program is essential for operating direct commercial flights to the US.

The U.S. ambassador assured that Washington will provide all possible cooperation to facilitate the process of launching direct flights on the Dhaka-New York (JFK) route.

Bilateral Ties and Aviation Sector Development
During the meeting, both parties emphasized strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the civil aviation and tourism sectors.

The minister stated that the government is placing special importance on the country's civil aviation sector and is formulating an Aviation Master Plan to improve connectivity.

As part of efforts to transform Bangladesh into a regional aviation hub, a state-of-the-art Air Traffic Management System was recently launched at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. He also mentioned that the government has taken steps to construct an international airport in Bogura.

To build Biman Bangladesh Airlines into a globally acclaimed legacy carrier, steps have been taken to acquire new aircraft. The minister noted that agreements have already been signed for the purchase of 14 Boeing aircraft, marking an important milestone in long-term commercial and strategic cooperation between the two nations.

However, he emphasized the need to accelerate the delivery process of these Boeing planes.

Tourism Sector Prospects and Ambassador's Response
Regarding tourism, the minister highlighted Bangladesh's natural beauty and noted that the government is encouraging private investment to develop 1,498 tourist centers across the country into international-standard destinations.

In response, the ambassador stated that the United States stands by Bangladesh in its efforts to become a regional aviation hub and expressed hope that the friendly relations between the two countries will remain steadfast. He shared that U.S. investors are keen to contribute to the development of Bangladesh's civil aviation and tourism sectors.

The ambassador also congratulated Millat on assuming office as a full cabinet minister. Additionally, discussions were held on the ambassador visiting various tourist spots to help promote Bangladesh's tourism potential.