Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Afroza Khanam Rita spoke today at a meeting held at the Ministry to discuss the management of Middle East-bound flight schedules and passenger services. Photo: PID

DHAKA, March 3, 2026 (BSS) – The Civil Aviation Tourism ministry today advised passengers to remain cautious against misinformation regarding flight schedule disruptions in the Middle East, as authorities reviewed measures to manage services and assist travellers amid the ongoing crisis.

The directive came at a meeting held at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism to discuss management of Middle East-bound flight schedules and passenger services in view of the prevailing situation.

Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Afroza Khanam Rita said all concerned must stay vigilant against misinformation and ensure that passengers do not face harassment during this unexpected situation. 

She instructed officials to make arrangements to prioritise passengers whose visas have expired or are nearing expiry once operations resume normally.

The minister also directed airlines to maintain round-the-clock communication with passengers and provide accurate and updated information. 

If necessary, 24/7 emergency contact numbers should remain operational, she said, urging carriers not to impose any additional charges and to extend humanitarian support to affected travellers.

Officials informed the meeting that due to the war situation in the Middle East, the airspace of Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait remains closed, while flight operations to Dammam in Saudi Arabia have also been suspended. 

They said misinformation has led to confusion and increased hardship for passengers.

The meeting also discussed plans to operate additional flights to transport stranded passengers once the situation stabilises.

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat delivered the welcome address.

Among others present, were Secretary of the ministry Ms Nasreen Jahan, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmud Siddique, senior officials of the ministry and its subordinate agencies, and representatives of private airlines.