How the fire started and where it spread
Local reports say the blaze began around 2:15 pm in the airport’s cargo village near Gate No. 8 — an area that stores imported goods and consignments awaiting clearance. Thick smoke and flames spread rapidly through the storage area, prompting an immediate large-scale emergency response. At the time of reporting, authorities had not released an official cause and investigations are ongoing.
Multi-agency response
Fire Service officials mobilised multiple units to fight the blaze. Initial dispatches reported nine firefighting units on scene with additional teams en route; subsequent updates from official and media sources put the total number of firefighting units involved at over 30, with reports varying between sources. The Bangladesh Air Force, Navy and Army also deployed firefighting teams to assist the civil fire service. Airport management confirmed cooperation between the Civil Aviation Authority and emergency services to contain the incident.
Operational impact: flights suspended, diversions likely
Airport authorities suspended all takeoffs and landings as crews battled the flames. The suspension left several inbound aircraft either delayed, redirected or holding until the runway and airspace were declared safe. Early reports indicated that flights were being diverted to alternate airports in Chattogram and Sylhet while airlines and passengers awaited updates. Airlines have advised passengers to check flight status with operators and travel agents.
Casualties, damage and investigation
At the time of the first reports there were no immediate confirmations of casualties. Officials cautioned that assessments were preliminary and that the extent of property damage — especially inside cargo hangars holding mixed consignments — would take time to establish. Fire Service spokespeople said the cause of the blaze would be investigated once conditions allowed safe inspection of the site. Given recent industrial fires in Dhaka and Chattogram earlier in the week, authorities said they would treat the probe with high priority.
What travellers and airlines should do now
Passengers scheduled to travel via Dhaka were urged to contact their airlines for the latest information and to avoid travelling to the airport until operations resume. Airlines typically issue rebooking, refund or diversion notices in such emergencies; travellers were advised to monitor official airline communications and airport advisories. RamRajya News also recommends checking with embassies or consular services if international connections are affected.
Wider implications
An incident at a major regional hub like Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport has ripple effects across schedules, cargo chains and regional connectivity. Beyond immediate operational disruption, investigators will examine storage practices, hazardous-materials handling and fire-safety protocols in cargo villages. For readers seeking civil aviation safety guidelines and updates, refer to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Ministry of Civil Aviation advisories.
