Airlines from various countries are owed three and a half thousand crore taka (approximately $323 million) by Bangladesh. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is pressuring for the repayment of these debts.

Due to significant amounts of money being withheld, these institutions are facing pressure, and there is a violation of international air travel agreements. IATA has issued a warning to Bangladesh in this regard.

Simultaneously, IATA has also issued a warning to Pakistan, where airlines are owed nearly five thousand crore Taka (approximately $399 million).

Recently, Philip Goh, the Vice President for the Asia Pacific region of IATA, shared this information in a statement.

The statement mentioned that managing overflight operations involves various expenses such as fuel costs, salaries, parts purchases, and accommodations for airline staff abroad. Due to delayed payments by various countries, these institutions are in trouble.

IATA currently includes 300 airline companies globally and handles about 84% of the world’s passengers. It is crucial for member countries to adhere to its policies.

Philip Goh stated that Bangladesh is facing a dollar crisis, which is why it is unable to make payments. He has urged the Bangladesh Bank to increase its attention to the aviation sector. He also mentioned that IATA is in contact with the Bangladesh Bank.

The question is, how did such a large amount become overdue?

Kazi Wahidul Alam, a former member of the Bangladesh Aviation Management Board, explained that for the operation of foreign airlines from Bangladesh, those selling tickets in Bangladesh must send dollars abroad with the approval of the Bangladesh Bank, following a monthly schedule. Approval has not been granted for several years, resulting in these arrears.

Many believe that the delay in payment has caused foreign airlines to increase ticket prices in Bangladesh. As the dollar fluctuates, prices are adjusted accordingly, according to some experts.