CAAB's Response and Our Counterpoint

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism (MoCAT) have maintained a collaborative approach in representing Bangladesh at international conferences and meetings. This practice is aimed at ensuring government-level coordination, policy alignment, and the representation of national interests beyond technical aviation issues.

Recently, a three-member team, including a joint secretary from MoCAT, was sent by Bangladesh to the 60th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for the Asia and Pacific (APAC) Region, held in Japan from 28 July to 3 August 2025. The team's participation was in line with common practice, as the ministry's involvement alongside CAAB is standard to maintain comprehensive engagement on civil aviation and tourism matters at such international forums.

However, a recent report titled "Foreign trips: Why must CAAB delegation have a ministry representative?" has raised questions about the relevance of a non-technical official in a highly specialised technical event. In response, the CAAB has sent a rejoinder, stating that the report is "factually incorrect" and suggesting it was circulated with a "detrimental purpose."

It is important to note that the organiser of the EU-South Asia Partnership Project (APP) Launch Workshop and SARI Steering Committee meeting, where the ministry representative was present, covered all expenses for the visit. The CAAB is responsible for coordinating all activities with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to develop a safe, secure, and environmentally sustainable aviation industry in Bangladesh under a comprehensive legal framework.

The report, based on verified information from credible sources, demonstrates a commitment to balanced, objective, and responsible journalism. It includes statements and perspectives from all relevant parties, including the official and the secretary of the ministry.

The CAAB reiterates that an appropriate-level representative from the ministry is a fundamental requirement in their visiting team. This practice allows MoCAT to contribute policy perspectives and facilitate inter-agency cooperation with CAAB’s technical expertise, leading to unified approaches in international aviation and tourism initiatives. Moreover, it helps MoCAT coordinate government policies, provide diplomatic support, and ensure national objectives are effectively communicated alongside the regulatory and operational inputs from CAAB.

In the spirit of transparency and open dialogue, the CAAB has emphasised the importance of accurate reporting and the avoidance of speculation in such matters. The authority remains committed to compliance with the articles of the Chicago Convention 1944 and ICAO Annexes on behalf of the government of Bangladesh.