A recent security audit conducted by the UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) reflects progress in the aviation security systems at Bangladesh's airports. In this assessment, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka) achieved a score of 94%, while Osmani International Airport (Sylhet) secured 98%. For comparison, the scores in the 2025 assessment were 93% for Shahjalal and 94% for Osmani; thus, within a year, Shahjalal’s score increased by 1 percentage point and Osmani’s by 4 percentage points.
The DfT audit—conducted with a focus on the security of passengers and cargo bound for the UK—reviewed various aspects of aviation security, including passenger, cargo, and mail security at both Hazrat Shahjalal and Osmani International Airports. A comparative analysis of the 2025 and 2026 results highlights the continuous improvement in the security systems at the country's airports.
Progress has also been sustained in the realm of cargo security. 100% compliance was achieved in the 'Additional Measures Assessment' regarding cargo-related security protocols. These results reflect the coordinated efforts of the relevant agencies in effectively implementing mandated security measures for passenger, cargo, and mail transport alongside passenger safety protocols.
The DfT’s latest assessment serves as a significant indicator of the capability and continuous development of Bangladesh's aviation security system. Progress in such international evaluations is expected to further strengthen the confidence of domestic and international stakeholders—including passengers, airlines, businesspeople, importers, and exporters—regarding airport security.
Simultaneously, this achievement offers an opportunity to showcase the advancements in Bangladesh's aviation security system on the international stage.
The results are particularly significant in demonstrating the country's ability to adhere to international standards and implement enhanced security measures for passenger, cargo, and mail safety. Since 2017, Bangladesh has been subject to additional security requirements under the European Union's High-Risk Cargo and Mail (HRCM) regime.
This entails extra security measures, longer processing times, and increased costs for cargo and mail destined for Europe. Bangladesh has already raised the issue of lifting HRCM-related restrictions with the relevant parties. Under EU regulations, special security measures apply to high-risk cargo and mail, and such risk determinations are linked to the EU's risk assessment processes.
The positive outcome of the recent Department for Transport (DfT) audit and the high level of compliance regarding cargo security serve as evidence of improvements in Bangladesh's security system. However, the revocation of HRCM status depends on the independent assessment and formal procedures of the relevant authorities.
The results of the DfT audit are also significant for preparations regarding the upcoming International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Universal Security Audit Programme–Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) audit.
Scheduled for October 26 to November 6, 2026, this audit will evaluate the aviation security management and implementation frameworks at the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) headquarters, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, and Osmani International Airport.
The preparations undertaken for the DfT audit and the observations noted therein have provided an opportunity to identify existing limitations and areas for improvement, enabling necessary corrective actions prior to the upcoming ICAO USAP-CMA audit. Furthermore, these results are expected to foster a positive attitude and boost confidence among aviation security personnel and relevant stakeholders as they prepare for the upcoming international audit.
Regarding this achievement, Air Commodore Md. Asif Iqbal, BSP, BUP, NDC, AFWC, PSC, GD(P), Member (Security) of CAAB, stated that the concerted efforts of the Aviation Security (AVSEC) Division of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), relevant airport authorities, and other stakeholders played a pivotal role.
The overall supervision of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism and the guidance provided by the Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) played a pivotal role throughout the entire process. Additionally, the mutual cooperation among various departments of CAAB facilitated preparations for the audit and the effective implementation of necessary security measures.
