Key Highlights
- Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) is the largest and main international airport in Bangladesh, located in the capital, Dhaka.
- It serves as the primary hub for national carriers like Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines, and Novoair.
- The airport is undergoing a massive expansion with the construction of a new Terminal 3, set to significantly increase its passenger handling capacity.
- HSIA features three terminals: T1 and T2 for international flights and a separate domestic terminal.
- Multiple ground transport options, including taxis, buses, and ride-sharing services, connect the airport to Dhaka city.
Introduction
Welcome to Dhaka! If you’re flying into the vibrant capital of Bangladesh, you’ll be arriving at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC). As the country’s largest and busiest international airport, it’s the primary gateway for millions of travelers each year. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know for a smooth journey, from navigating the terminals and understanding flight information to finding your way into the city. Get ready to explore all that this essential travel hub has to offer.
Overview of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, situated in Kurmitola, about 17 km from Dhaka’s city center, is the main aviation hub for Bangladesh. It not only serves Dhaka but also acts as a base for the Bangladesh Air Force. This international airport is operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).
With an annual passenger handling capacity of 18.5 million, the airport is well-equipped to manage a high volume of travelers. It is the primary hub for most Bangladeshi airlines, connecting the capital with destinations across the globe and within the country, solidifying its status as the nation’s most important airport.
History and Significance of Dhaka Airport
The origins of the airport trace back to 1941, when the British government built a landing strip in Kurmitola during World War II. After the independence of Bangladesh, the government initiated a project to develop it into the country’s main international airport, with work beginning in 1966 and restarting after the Liberation War.
The airport officially began operations in 1980 as Dacca International Airport. It was later renamed Zia International Airport in 1983. For years, it has been the critical link connecting Bangladesh to the rest of the world and a cornerstone of the nation’s infrastructure.
In 2010, the airport received its current name, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, in honor of Shah Jalal, a revered Sufi saint in Bangladesh. This change reflects the deep cultural and historical respect the nation holds for its spiritual leaders. Today, its significance continues to grow as it expands to meet modern aviation demands.
How Dhaka Airport Compares to Other Airports in Bangladesh
When comparing airports within Bangladesh, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) stands out as the undisputed leader. It is the country’s largest, busiest, and most significant international airport, dwarfing others in both scale and traffic. While cities like Chattogram and Sylhet have international airports, they primarily serve as secondary hubs with a much lower passenger handling capacity.
HSIA’s role as the primary gateway for international flights and the main hub for nearly all domestic airlines sets it apart. The sheer volume of its annual passenger handling and aircraft movements is unmatched by any other airport in the nation.
| Feature | Hazrat Shahjalal Int’l Airport (HSIA) | Other Major Airports (e.g., Chattogram, Sylhet) |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Main international gateway; largest in Bangladesh | Secondary international and major domestic hubs |
| Annual Passenger Handling | Capacity for 18.5 million passengers | Significantly lower capacity |
| Hub Status | Primary hub for most Bangladeshi airlines | Hubs for some domestic and limited international routes |
| Connectivity | Extensive network of global and domestic destinations | Primarily regional and domestic connections |
This comparison underscores why HSIA is central to Bangladesh’s aviation network, managing the vast majority of the country’s air traffic.
Terminals and Essential Services for Travelers
Navigating Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is straightforward thanks to its well-organized terminals. The airport currently has three main terminals. Terminals 1 and 2 are housed in the same building and dedicated to international flights, with T1 serving arrivals and T2 handling departures. A separate building, the Domestic Terminal, manages all flights within Bangladesh.
As the airport’s passenger handling capacity grows, a new, state-of-the-art Terminal 3 is under construction. This expansion promises to introduce a host of modern services and significantly enhance the traveler experience at this key international airport. Next, we’ll explore the airlines and destinations you can access from here.
Airlines, Destinations, and Flight Information
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) is a bustling hub for numerous national and international airways. As the home base for Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines, and Novoair, it anchors the country’s aviation industry. Major global carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines also operate regular international flights from Dhaka.
This extensive network connects Dhaka to key cities across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Whether you’re planning a domestic trip or an international journey, you’ll find plenty of options. The following sections provide more details on specific airlines, popular routes, and how to check your flight status.
Major Airlines Operating and Popular International Routes
A diverse range of airlines operates out of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, connecting Dhaka (DAC) with the world. Major international carriers include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, and Turkish Airlines. The airport is also the primary hub for local airways like Biman Bangladesh Airlines and US-Bangla Airlines, which offer extensive international flights.
These airlines serve a wide array of destinations, making it easy for you to travel for business or leisure. Some of the most popular international routes from Shahjalal International Airport include:
- Kuala Lumpur (KUL)
- Bangkok (BKK)
- Dubai (DXB)
- London (LHR)
Beyond these routes, carriers offer direct and connecting flights to cities like Singapore, Doha, Istanbul, and many more. This robust network solidifies Hazrat Shahjalal’s position as a crucial international gateway for the region.
Checking Flight Schedules, Departures, and Arrivals
How do you keep track of your flight? The most reliable way to check the latest schedules for departures and arrivals at Dhaka Airport (DAC) is by visiting the official airport website, hsia.gov.bd. This portal provides real-time information, helping you stay informed about any changes or delays. Additionally, the websites and mobile apps of individual airlines are excellent resources for tracking your specific flight.
It’s always a good idea to check your flight status before heading to the airport. This is especially important for international flights, as schedules can sometimes change. Verifying your flight time can save you from unnecessary waiting and ensure a stress-free start to your journey.
By using these official online resources, you can get live updates on your flight’s status. These platforms are designed to provide accurate information to help manage the airport’s large annual passenger handling capacity and ensure travelers like you are well-informed.
Getting To and From Dhaka Airport
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) is conveniently located in Kurmitola, just 17 km north of downtown Dhaka. The airport is easily accessible via the eight-lane Airport Road, making the journey to and from the city relatively straightforward, depending on traffic.
Whether you’re being dropped off for a departure or looking for a ride after you land, you’ll find several transport options available. From traditional taxis to modern ride-sharing services, getting to your final destination in Bangladesh is simple. Let’s look at the specific processes and transport choices.
Drop-Off Process and Guidance for Arriving Passengers
What is the process for getting dropped off at Dhaka airport? For departing passengers, there are designated drop-off zones located just outside the appropriate terminal buildings. If you are taking an international flight, your driver can pull up to the kerbside of Terminal 2 to let you out with your luggage. The process is designed to be quick and efficient to manage traffic flow.
Upon arrival, international passengers will proceed through Terminal 1. After clearing immigration and collecting your baggage, you will exit the main concourse hall. Here, you will find yourself in the main arrivals area, which is the starting point for finding onward transportation.
Clear signage will guide you from the baggage claim area to the exit. Once outside, you’ll have immediate access to various transport services ready to take you into Dhaka. The airport is designed to handle a large passenger handling capacity, with systems in place to ensure a smooth flow for both arriving and departing travelers.
Transport Options to the City Center: Taxis, Buses, and Car Rentals
Finding transport from HSIA to downtown Dhaka is a simple task. For a hassle-free experience, you can find a taxi kiosk near the exit of the international arrivals hall. Here, you can order a taxi and pre-pay the fare, which helps avoid any negotiation with drivers and ensures a fair price for the approximately 17 km journey.
For more flexibility, you have several other choices. Ride-sharing apps are very popular in Bangladesh and offer a convenient way to book a car directly from your phone. Here are the most common transport options:
- Pre-paid Taxis: Available from the official kiosk at the terminal.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Services like Uber and Pathao operate to and from the airport.
- Train: The Airport Railway Station is located just outside the airport, offering another way to connect to the city.
These options provide a range of price points and convenience levels, making it easy to choose the one that best suits your needs for getting around Dhaka.
Frequently Asked Questions
What facilities are available for international travelers at Dhaka airport?
At Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, international travelers can access various facilities. These include currency exchange services, duty-free shops, prayer rooms, and several airline and bank-operated lounges. The terminal also offers restaurants and cafes, ensuring you have everything you need before your flight from Dhaka.
Where can I get live updates on flight conditions at Dhaka airport?
For live updates on departures and arrivals at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, the best sources are the official airport website (hsia.gov.bd) and the official websites or mobile apps of your airline. These platforms provide the most accurate, real-time information for all international flights operating from Dhaka.
What transport options are recommended from Dhaka airport to downtown Dhaka?
Recommended transport options from HSIA to downtown Dhaka include pre-paid taxis, available from a kiosk in the arrivals hall, and popular ride-sharing services like Uber and Pathao. Both offer a convenient and reliable way to travel the 17 km distance into the city.