Last checked: November 2026
Most international visitors fly into Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka, the country’s main gateway. Shah Amanat International Airport (CGP) in Chattogram and Osmani International Airport (ZYL) in Sylhet also handle international flights. Middle East disruption has affected many routes in 2026, so check your routing and airline notices close to departure.
Safety note: the US State Department rates Bangladesh Level 2, “Exercise increased caution”, and rates the Chittagong Hill Tracts (Khagrachari, Rangamati and Bandarban), the refugee camp areas near Cox’s Bazar and the areas along the Myanmar border Level 4, “Do not travel”. The UK government advises against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Read the US advisory and the UK travel advice before you plan, and check both again before you leave.
Main International Airports in Bangladesh
| Airport | Role | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hazrat Shahjalal International (DAC), Dhaka | Main international gateway | Most arrivals and connections |
| Shah Amanat International (CGP), Chattogram | International flights | Port city and the south-east |
| Osmani International (ZYL), Sylhet | International flights | Tea country and the north-east |
Cox’s Bazar and other regional airports are served by domestic flights, which our guide to getting around Bangladesh covers in full. Route lists change often, so check the airline’s website for your dates.
Which Airlines Fly to Bangladesh?
Biman Bangladesh Airlines and US-Bangla Airlines are the Bangladeshi carriers with international routes. Foreign airlines also serve Dhaka, including Saudi carriers such as Saudia and Riyadh Air on routes to Saudi Arabia, and many travellers connect through Gulf, South Asian or South-East Asian hubs. Typical routes and flight times depend on your starting point, so confirm them on the airline’s own website before you book.
Getting From Dhaka Airport to the City
The airport is about 17 to 20 km north of the city centre. The transfer can take about 30 minutes late at night, and well over an hour in heavy traffic. Dhaka’s MRT Line 6, which runs from Uttara to Motijheel, doesn’t reach the airport terminal, so most visitors use a hotel pick-up, a taxi or a ride-hailing car.
Leave extra time if you have an early flight, because traffic can be slow at any hour. If you’re staying near the airport for a late arrival, our guide to where to stay in Bangladesh compares Uttara and Airport Road with other Dhaka areas.
Chattogram and Sylhet Airports
Shah Amanat International Airport serves Chattogram, and Osmani International Airport serves Sylhet. Taxis and hotel pick-ups are the usual ways into town from both. Arrange your transfer in advance if you arrive at night, and agree the fare before you set off.
Middle East Disruption in 2026
- Gulf connections: many flights between Bangladesh and Europe or North America use Middle Eastern airspace or hubs. The UK government says escalation in the Middle East has caused airspace closures and delayed or cancelled flights.
- Saudi routes: in October 2026, Biman suspended Dhaka–Riyadh and Dhaka–Dammam flights after attacks on Saudi airports, and said it would announce further decisions later.
- What to do: choose flexible fares, avoid tight connections through the Gulf, and read your airline’s notices before you travel.
The UK government also warns of fuel shortages in Bangladesh and possible transport disruption, so allow time and keep your plans flexible.
Time Zone
Bangladesh uses Bangladesh Standard Time, which is UTC+6, and doesn’t currently observe daylight saving time. The difference with Europe and North America changes twice a year, so check your arrival time carefully.
Which Route Should You Choose?
- Choose a direct flight to Dhaka if one is available, since every connection adds a possible delay.
- Choose a connection through a hub with many daily flights if no direct flight exists, and avoid routings that rely on a single Gulf airport.
- Choose Chattogram or Sylhet if you’re starting in the south-east or the tea country and your airline offers a good route.
Booking Tips
- Compare the total cost, including baggage and any change fees.
- Choose refundable or changeable tickets while Middle East flights remain disrupted.
- Book early for the weeks around Eid and school holidays, which our best time to visit Bangladesh guide explains.
- Leave a buffer day between your trip and any onward flight home.
Before You Fly Checklist
- Confirm your visa route and passport validity using our Bangladesh visa guide.
- Complete the electronic arrival card before you fly, if it applies to you.
- Carry a return or onward ticket and proof of accommodation.
- Check airline notices for your route and connection points.
- Buy travel insurance, and check that it covers disruption.
Once you land, our Bangladesh itineraries show how to use your first days.
3 Quick Answers
Which airport do most visitors use?
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.
Can I fly into cities other than Dhaka?
Yes. Chattogram and Sylhet have international flights, but routes are fewer, so check your airline.
Is flying through the Gulf safe right now?
Disruption is common. Check your airline and the latest government advice, and choose flexible tickets.
Flight Deals
Compare current offers below. Always confirm the final price, taxes and cancellation terms on the partner site.
Flights to Bangladesh FAQs
How far is Dhaka airport from the city centre?
About 17 to 20 km. Travel time ranges from roughly 30 minutes at night to more than an hour in traffic.
Do I need to print my visa?
Carry your approval or visa in print and on your phone. Requirements differ by nationality, so confirm with the official source listed in our visa guide.
Is there a metro from the airport?
Not directly. Dhaka’s metro line doesn’t reach the terminal, so you’ll need a taxi, ride-hailing car or hotel transfer.
When should I book flights to Bangladesh?
Book early for Eid and school holiday periods, and choose a flexible fare while Middle East disruption continues. Check the airline’s own site for the latest schedule.
