Bangladesh launched its first dedicated cargo flight from Sylhet’s MAG Osmani International Airport on April 27, marking a strategic shift in its export logistics. The Airbus A330-300 freighter carried 60 tonnes of garments to Spain for Inditex, reducing reliance on Indian transit routes.

This follows India’s April 8 decision to revoke transshipment facilities for Bangladeshi cargo. In response, Bangladesh fast-tracked cargo infrastructure upgrades, with Sylhet airport now meeting international standards.

The move could cut air freight costs to Europe by up to 13%. Two weekly freighter flights are planned initially. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to decentralize air cargo operations across Bangladesh and reduce pressure on Dhaka’s main airport.