CAAB orders airlines to help passengers amid Saudi flight disruptions

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has directed airlines operating direct and transit flights to Saudi Arabia to provide immediate assistance to passengers affected by security-related flight disruptions, including rebooking, refunds, updated flight information and visa-related support.

In a press release issued on Monday, CAAB instructed airlines to promptly notify passengers of cancellations, delays and schedule changes via SMS, phone calls, emails, websites, social media and other available channels. The directive was signed by Group Captain SM Ragib Samad, executive director of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA).

Passengers have been advised to check their flight status with the relevant airline before heading to the airport. Airlines must provide clear information on revised departure times, rebooking procedures, refunds and other applicable arrangements.

Passengers already at HSIA, or arriving without knowing about the disruptions, must not be left unattended. Airlines have been instructed to provide seating, drinking water, refreshments, meals and other essential support where necessary, with special attention to elderly passengers, children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable travellers.

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Each airline must designate a responsible focal point, backed by adequate staff, to coordinate flight updates, passenger assistance and operational arrangements with airport authorities. Airlines must immediately share the focal points’ contact details with HSIA Flight Management and ensure they remain accessible throughout the disruptions.

Visa concerns for stranded workers

The disruptions have raised concerns over Saudi visas nearing expiry for Bangladeshi migrant workers stranded in the country.

CAAB has instructed airlines to guide affected passengers to the relevant Saudi authorities, the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka and other concerned agencies for visa extensions and immigration-related assistance.

State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque said on Tuesday that the government was holding bilateral discussions with Saudi Arabia to extend the visas of stranded workers, allowing them to travel and join their workplaces.

He acknowledged that negotiations had become difficult following the recent security incident in Riyadh but expressed hope for a solution.

CAAB has directed all concerned airlines to implement the instructions immediately and coordinate closely with HSIA Flight Management to minimise passenger hardship and safeguard travellers’ welfare.