A fire erupted at Shahjalal International Airport’s cargo area in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon, prompting the temporary suspension of all flights.
A large fire broke out near Gate 8 of Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon, prompting a major emergency response and the temporary suspension of all flight operations.
According to officials, the fire started at approximately 2:30 PM, with 36 firefighting units eventually deployed to bring the blaze under control.
The airport’s Executive Director, Md Masudul Hasan Masud, confirmed the incident and assured the public that emergency protocols were in place.
“All our aircraft are confirmed safe. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops”
Spokesperson to The Daily Star.
Earlier reports from Biman Bangladesh Airlines spokesperson Kawser Mahmud indicated the fire began slightly earlier, around 2:15 PM, prompting immediate action by the airport’s fire department, the Bangladesh Air Force, and other response teams. At the time, 28 firefighting units were already active, with reinforcements en route, Dhaka Tribune reported.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that multiple agencies—including the Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority, Fire Service, Navy, and Air Force—were working jointly to contain the fire. Two Air Force fire units and two platoons from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) were also involved in the operation.
Flight Operations Suspended, Flights Diverted
All inbound and outbound flights at Dhaka’s main airport were temporarily suspended as a safety precaution. Several arriving flights were diverted to Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram and Osmani International Airport in Sylhet.
Cargo and Chemical Storage Areas Affected
Nasir Uddin, director of the Bangladesh Freight Forwarders Association, said authorities are currently assessing the extent of damage to cargo stored in the affected area. He noted that international courier storage facilities were hit hard, and a nearby chemical warehouse had also caught fire.
No Casualties Reported, Cause Under Investigation
Authorities have reported no casualties or major structural damage so far. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
