Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia have signed a new memorandum of understanding on air services, increasing authorized weekly passenger flights between the countries from 49 to 84. The Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority chairman, Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmud Siddiq, announced the agreement at a Thursday press conference at the authority’s headquarters. The arrangement also allows 21 weekly cargo flights and includes fifth-freedom traffic rights, code-sharing, co-terminalization and aircraft leasing opportunities.

The additional 35 weekly passenger flights are intended to help meet growing travel demand, according to the chairman. He said about 4 million Bangladeshis living and working in Saudi Arabia would benefit from increased flights and seat capacity. Hajj and Umrah travellers are also expected to benefit, particularly during the Hajj season when passenger pressure and seat shortages can arise. Greater airline competition could give passengers access to more competitive and affordable fares, he said.

The agreement creates scope to expand services from Chattogram and Sylhet to Riyadh, Dammam, Madinah and Jeddah. Cargo provisions could speed exports including garments, fresh vegetables and fruit to Saudi markets. Designated Bangladeshi airlines may also operate cargo services via Saudi Arabia to specified destinations including Spain and Germany.