BSS-60 Airlines in domestic routes see 80% business recovery

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BSS-60

AIRLINES-BUSINESS-RECOVERY

Airlines in domestic routes see 80% business recovery

DHAKA, Feb 16, 2021 (BSS) – State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Mahbub Ali today said the numbers of domestic air travelers have been increasing as COVID-19 vaccination drive gave confidence to people about their immunity against the pandemic.

“Airlines in domestic route already recovered 80 percent of their business, besides, country’s tourism sector is getting vibrant again,” he said.

The State Minister was speaking as the chief guest on the occasion of awarding airlines who provided air transport service during the COVID-19 pandemic in a city hotel organized by leading aviation and travel magazine The Bangladesh Monitor.

“Suddenly everything was stopped as lockdown imposed around the globe due to COVID-19 pandemic. However, our aviation workers have been constantly working by risking their own lives for sake of country and its people”, Mahbub said.

The state minister appreciated Biman and US-Bangla airlines for their contribution to operating cargo flights to carry masks, medicines and other medical commodities to fight against the pandemic.

The airlines those received today’s ‘Friend in Need’ recognition are – Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Novoair, US-Bangla Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates airline and Air Arabia.

Following the outbreak of the unprecedented pandemic, the Bangladesh government temporarily embargoed on operations of all scheduled domestic and international flights on March 22, 2020.

However, after thorough review of the situation the Government within the shortest possible time decided to open the sky paving the way for resumption of passenger air transportation.

Presently over 25 local and foreign airlines are operating regular flights to and from Bangladesh and few others are waiting for the necessary permission from the concerned authorities.

BSS/PR/MMH/TA/MRU/2047hrs