Dhaka Airport: Cargo exports hit as 3 of 4 scanners out of order

Exports through Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) have been severely disrupted as three of the four Explosive Detection System (EDS) scanners remain non-functional.

With only one scanner operational, cargo clearance has slowed substantially, delaying shipments.

The problem began in April when all four scanners stopped functioning, said Kabir Ahmed, former president of the Bangladesh Freight Forwarders Association (BAFFA). One was repaired later.

“It is very difficult to complete the vital scanning of export cargo with only one EDS as three are damaged,” he said.

The pressure is mounting as the ongoing Iran war has increased reliance on air shipments, particularly garment exports, to meet strict deadlines set by international retailers and brands.

Currently, 400–600 tonnes of cargo are brought daily to HSIA for airlifting, mainly to the EU and US. In peak seasons, the volume rises to about 1,200 tonnes a day, while in lean periods it drops to 200–250 tonnes.

Kabir urged the government to address the issue urgently as it directly affects national exports.

SM Ragib Samad, executive director of HSIA, said that two of the scanners have long been beyond repair, while another developed technical faults last month.

“We are trying to repair this EDS scanner machine, and it will likely be in service by May 25,” he added.

EDS screening is mandatory for cargo exports to European Union countries.

Cargo bound for non-European destinations, including the Middle East and Africa, is screened through separate “Non-RA3” scanners. Of the six such machines, three are operational, one is out of service, and two have been reported “temporarily inactive”. Sector insiders said the inactive scanners are functional and can be reactivated if demand rises.

To manage the crisis, airport authorities are increasingly relying on Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) squads as an emergency alternative.

Exporters, however, have expressed concern over the prolonged breakdown and sought urgent repairs.

Nisher Khan, chairman of the airport cell of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), said, “The airport authorities have been assuring that one EDS may be repaired soon.”

He added that garment exporters are rushing to ship goods ahead of Eid to ensure timely payments and meet strict lead times, as factory production will pause during the holiday.

“There is heavy pressure of waiting goods at HSIA, and one scanner is not enough to complete the vital screening,” Nisher said.