New govt vows to end long waits for airport luggage

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat today said the government plans to ensure that air passengers receive their luggage immediately after completing immigration formalities, as part of efforts to improve airport services.

Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on his first working day after taking office, he said authorities had already begun planning changes to reduce inconvenience for travellers from ticket purchase to baggage collection.

“We want to redesign airport processes so that passengers do not face difficulties from ticketing to luggage handling,” he said.

Millat said the initiative aims to end long waits at baggage belts, where passengers often spend one to two hours for their luggage, and to curb corruption linked to the process.

Addressing complaints about ticket shortages, he alleged that in many cases flights operate with empty seats while passengers are unable to obtain tickets, as there are syndicates behind this.

“We are aware of the problems and have taken responsibility,” he said, adding that people would begin to see gradual improvements soon, with signs of change expected within one to two weeks.

On corruption in the sector over the past 15 years, the state minister said allegations would be investigated.

“Many are already in jail. The sector is not fully corruption-free yet, and we will work to fix that,” he said.