Dhaka Airport Operates Without Satellite Connectivity for Two Months, Raises Concerns Over Safety

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), Bangladesh’s busiest airport, has been operating without satellite-based connectivity for its air traffic communication system for over two months, sparking growing concerns among aviation experts. The satellite-based Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) system, which provides crucial communication for aircraft operations, was disrupted, forcing the airport to rely on fibre-optic internet links — a system originally meant as a backup.

This shift has raised alarms about the airport's operational safety, especially during adverse weather conditions like dense winter fog, when pilots depend heavily on ground-based communication to ensure safe landings. Experts warn that any failure in the fibre-optic system could significantly impact operations, potentially leading to flight diversions or even airport closure.

The source of the disruption is reportedly satellite jamming, though the exact cause remains unidentified. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) is investigating the issue and has recommended changing the operating frequency band to restore satellite communication. However, experts emphasize that satellite connectivity must be restored quickly to prevent further operational risks.