In a high-level move to overhaul passenger services, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism has issued stern directives to Biman Bangladesh Airlines regarding luggage security and the professional conduct of staff toward expatriate workers.
The instructions were delivered by Minister Afroza Khanam (Rita) and State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat during an inspection of Biman’s Kurmitola headquarters on Monday (March 30). They were received by Biman’s Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Humayra Sultana, along with senior board directors.
Zero Tolerance for Luggage Theft
During an exchange at the airline's conference room, Minister Afroza Khanam emphasized that Biman must remain a symbol of national pride. She took a hardline stance on recent security lapses at the airport.
"There will be no concessions regarding luggage theft. A policy of zero tolerance must be strictly enforced," the Minister stated.
She further underscored the need for a cultural shift in how the airline treats its passengers, particularly migrant workers. "The behavior of all staff, including cabin crew, toward our expatriates must be both respectful and professional," she added.
Addressing Ticket Scarcity and Operations
The Minister also touched upon long-standing grievances regarding seat availability, directing officials to ensure transparency in ticket management. She noted the discrepancy where passengers often find tickets "unavailable" while flights depart with empty seats, demanding that this be monitored effectively.
Additionally, the Minister highlighted:
- Hajj Operations: Ensuring safe, timely, and satisfactory travel for pilgrims is a top priority.
- Internal Standards: Maintaining high levels of cleanliness and environmental standards across all aircraft.
Future Fleet Expansion and Planning
State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat assured the national carrier of the Ministry's full support in accelerating growth. He revealed that, subject to signed agreements, new aircraft are expected to join the fleet by 2032.
However, the State Minister focused on the immediate interim period, directing Biman's leadership to submit a comprehensive operational report by 2026 detailing how the airline will manage its activities through 2031.
Following the briefing, the ministers toured the Biman Flight Catering Center (BFCC) to inspect food quality and safety protocols, engaging with officials on further service improvements.
