The government’s move to reopen inactive airports is shaping up as a major economic intervention aimed at unlocking growth in northern Bangladesh. Led by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, the initiative prioritises Bogura, Ishwardi, Thakurgaon, and Lalmonirhat, focusing on regions with strong industrial and agricultural potential but limited connectivity.
At present, 6 out of Bangladesh’s 14 airports remain inactive, with 4 located in the northern region. This underutilisation has long constrained business mobility, delayed logistics, and limited access to high-value markets. By restoring operations, the government aims to transform these airports into economic enablers that can support trade, investment, and regional integration.
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The economic impact is expected to be significant. The Ishwardi Export Processing Zone has already generated more than $2.21 billion in exports and employs over 21,000 workers, proving the region’s industrial strength. A new EPZ planned on 450 acres in Rangpur is projected to create up to 100,000 jobs, while additional economic zones in Sirajganj, Kurigram, and areas near the Jamuna Bridge are under development. These figures indicate a rapidly expanding industrial base that requires efficient transport infrastructure to sustain growth.
Connectivity remains the biggest challenge. Currently, travel from Bogura to Dhaka takes 8 to 10 hours by road, creating inefficiencies for businesses and discouraging investment. Reopening the airport could reduce this journey to just 1 to 2 hours, significantly improving executive mobility, supply chain speed, and overall productivity. Faster movement of goods and people directly contributes to cost savings and higher economic output.
The agriculture sector also stands to gain. Northern Bangladesh produces large volumes of rice, maize, fruits, milk, and vegetables, yet farmers and traders often incur losses due to delays in transportation. Improved air connectivity can enable quicker delivery of perishable goods, stabilise prices, and open access to export markets. Seasonal products such as flowers and dairy items offer additional export potential when supported by efficient logistics.
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From an investment perspective, improved air links can change how businesses view the region. Industrial hubs like Bogura, known for light engineering and manufacturing, could attract more domestic and foreign investors once accessibility improves. Even small aircraft operations with 17 to 18 seats have been identified as commercially viable on routes like Dhaka to Bogura and Dhaka to Thakurgaon, indicating strong demand at a manageable scale.
While aviation experts have stressed the need for careful feasibility studies to ensure commercial viability, the broader economic direction is clear. With more than $2.21 billion in existing exports, the potential for 100,000 new jobs, and a drastic reduction in travel time, the reopening of northern airports represents a strategic push toward inclusive growth and long-term economic prosperity in Bangladesh.