Bangladesh: Nine flights diverted as dense fog reduces visibility at Dhaka airport

Nine flights were diverted from Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) today due to dense fog and poor visibility. Of the diverted flights, four were sent to Chattogram, four to Kolkata, and one to Bangkok, Thailand. 

Aviation experts said such disruptions are frequent during winter because Dhaka airport lacks a Category 2 Instrument Landing System (ILS). Currently operating with a Category 1 ILS, the airport requires a minimum visibility of 800 metres for landings.

Pilots and safety officials noted that upgrading to Category 2, or ideally Category 3, would significantly reduce fog-related diversions.