The Rise of Helicopter Travel in Bangladesh
In a nation where traffic congestion is a daily challenge, a new mode of travel is gaining traction—literally. Helicopters, once seen as a luxury reserved for the elite or government officials, are now becoming a practical choice for business leaders, the upper-middle class, and adventurous tourists.
From the bustling streets of Dhaka to the tranquil beauty of Cox’s Bazar and the dense mangroves of the Sundarbans, private helicopter charters are redefining domestic transport. This shift reflects changing expectations among modern travelers who value time and convenience.
“Due to severe traffic jams and the increasing need to save time, helicopters are becoming a viable alternative, especially for the elite,” said an official from one of the country's leading helicopter service providers.
Today, several private helicopter operators are active in Bangladesh, including Probashir Helicopter, Meghna Aviation, Square Air, Bashundhara Airways, and Impress Aviation. These companies offer tailored charter services that cater to both local and international clients. However, some firms like Sikder Group and South Asian Airlines remain grounded due to operational challenges.
Regulatory bodies have also taken notice. Since the early 2000s, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has licensed around a dozen non-scheduled helicopter operators, with the number continuing to grow.
A High-End Experience
Hiring a helicopter in Bangladesh remains a high-end affair, but it is becoming more accessible to affluent families and corporate clients. A round trip from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar can cost between Tk 2.5 lakh to Tk 4 lakh, depending on the aircraft and availability. Shorter trips, such as to Narayanganj, Cumilla, or Munshiganj, range from Tk 80,000 to Tk 1.5 lakh.
Beyond leisure and business, helicopters are serving critical functions such as emergency medical evacuations, disaster response, survey work, and film production. Additionally, many families are booking helicopters for weddings, family events, and quick visits to remote hometowns.
“Though the service was once exclusive to top executives and political figures, it is now gradually being used by the upper-middle class for various purposes, including special occasions,” said a senior executive officer of a private service provider, requesting anonymity.
Expanding Routes and Diverse Clients
The routes served by helicopter operators are becoming more diverse, as are their clients. Helicopters now frequently land in Shariatpur, Cumilla, and Bogura, while scenic destinations like Sylhet, Bandarban, Saint Martin’s, and the Sundarbans are increasingly popular among domestic and international travelers.
Peak demand occurs during winter and festival seasons, with many companies reporting fully booked calendars weeks in advance. To meet this growing appetite, service providers have expanded their fleets, overhauled maintenance protocols, and adopted digital booking systems for a smoother experience.
Ambitious Plans and New Routes
Among the most ambitious players in the sector is Probashir Helicopter. Its Managing Director, Byjed Al Hassan, told UNB that his company aims to provide a one-stop helicopter service, especially useful for international travelers arriving at the airport and seeking quick transit to destinations across the country.
Probashir Helicopter operates two types of helicopters—one with four seats and another with six. “In the past, the minimum fare was Tk 75,000 per flying hour, but now it has increased to Tk 85,000 due to growing demand and a shortage of available helicopters. Many aircraft from other companies are grounded,” he explained.
The company has even more ambitious plans. It aims to launch a Dhaka-Chattogram-Bandarban route to attract both local and foreign tourists. If they receive clearance from the army, the route could begin operation as early as next year. The fare would be Tk 20,000 per person from Dhaka to Chattogram, and Tk 7,000-8,000 from Chattogram to Bandarban.
For those seeking a more urban thrill, the company has introduced aerial city tours over Dhaka, showcasing landmarks such as Lalbagh Fort, Hatirjheel, Savar National Memorial, and even the Taj Mahal replica in Narayanganj's Sonargaon. The fare is $200 per person for foreign nationals and Tk 10,500 for locals.
Unique Experiences and Challenges
For food-loving flyers, there is a unique journey to Munshiganj, where the helicopter lands on the banks of the Padma River, near the iconic Padma Bridge. There, passengers are treated to a meal featuring Hilsa fish and other traditional delicacies before returning to the capital. The cost? $250 per foreign passenger.
Despite the momentum, challenges persist. The cost remains prohibitive for the general population, and weather conditions often disrupt operations. Industry insiders acknowledge that broader adoption will require infrastructure expansion, regulatory clarity, and improvements in weather forecasting. Even so, optimism prevails.
Helicopter usage in Bangladesh dates back to the 1980s, primarily for government and military operations. While commercial services began taking off in the early 2000s, the real turning point came after 2015, when rising disposable incomes and increased demand for time-saving alternatives fueled rapid growth.
Now, as CAAB works on updated safety protocols and supports infrastructure development, many see helicopter travel as not just a status symbol, but a meaningful contribution to Bangladesh's evolving transport landscape.
In a country where progress often battles with bottlenecks, the rising of helicopter blades may well signal a new era in how people move, connect, and experience the skies.