Celebi Aviation, a Turkey-based international aviation service provider, has expressed strong interest in managing ground handling operations at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA).

The proposal was discussed during a meeting at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism’s conference room at the Secretariat on Tuesday, May 12. The session was attended by Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, and representatives from Celebi Aviation. The Turkish Ambassador to Bangladesh, H.E. Ramis Şen, and Ministry Secretary Fahmida Akhter were also present.

During the meeting, Celebi representatives detailed their interest in participating in ground handling services to elevate the operational standards of Bangladesh’s airports. In response, the Minister and State Minister assured the delegation that Celebi Aviation would be given priority consideration in the appointment process for ground handling agencies.

Minister Afroza Khanam emphasized the government’s commitment to developing the tourism industry, highlighting the ongoing project to upgrade Cox’s Bazar Airport to international standards. She noted the potential for Celebi Aviation to manage ground handling operations there in the future as well.

State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat called on Celebi Aviation to submit a comprehensive "Concept Paper" outlining strategies to enhance passenger service quality, operational efficiency, and modern management systems.

The meeting concluded with both parties expressing optimism about collaborating through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models to strengthen Bangladesh’s aviation and tourism sectors in partnership with Turkey.