Turkish aviation services provider Celebi Aviation's senior representatives met with Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam and State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat at the Secretariat in Dhaka today. Photo: PID

DHAKA, May 12, 2026 (BSS) - Turkish aviation services provider Celebi Aviation today expressed interest in joining Bangladesh’s airport ground handling operations, as Dhaka sought Turkish partnership to improve passenger services and boost aviation-linked tourism infrastructure.

The interest was conveyed during a courtesy meeting between Celebi’s high representative and Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, and State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat at the Secretariat here.

Turkish Ambassador to Bangladesh Ramis Sen and Civil Aviation Ministry Secretary Fahmida Akhter, among others, were present.

During the meeting, representatives of Celebi Aviation expressed their keen interest in participating in ground handling operations at Bangladesh’s airports to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.

The minister and state minister assured the company of priority consideration in the appointment of a ground handling operator.

Khanam highlighted the importance of internationalising Cox's Bazar Airport to support the country’s tourism development and invited Celebi Aviation to explore ground handling opportunities there.

Millat also invited the Turkish company to submit a concept paper aimed at improving passenger service standards.

The meeting also expressed optimism about strengthening cooperation with Turkey under a public-private partnership framework to support the development of Bangladesh’s aviation and tourism sectors.