No plan to relocate fighter jet base from Dhaka: BAF

Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) has made its stance clear, saying that it has no plan to shift base elsewhere from Dhaka, citing the crucial role of the fighter jets to ensure air defence of the capital and national security.

Air Commodore Shahidul Islam, director of the Air Operations Directorate, announced the decision while addressing a press conference held at the Bangladesh Aviation and Aerospace University in Tejgaon area of Dhaka on Monday.

In the wake of the tragic plane crash at Milestone School and College that has claimed 34 lives so far, people from various classes and professions have recently raised their voices demanding the relocation of the air base from Kurmitola in Dhaka.

Rejecting the plea, he said, “The air defence of the capital Dhaka, is not negotiable. Having a fighter jet base in the capital is crucial for national security. Many countries in the world keep such bases in or near their capitals.”

While reading out a written statement during the press conference, Air Commodore Mizanur Rahman, chief coordinator of the Air Force Emergency Coordination Centre, said that the Bangladesh Air Force would remain beside the family members of the plane crash victims.  

“We will extend our support to the victims’ family members and to those who sustained injuries in the accident. We are stunned and shocked over the accident,” he said, recalling the contribution of the law enforcers who played their best role in the rescue operation.