Coxs Bazar Airport

Cox's Bazar Airport is more than just a transport hub; it is a true gateway to a world of endless beaches and coastal charm. Located just steps away from the famous coastline, it allows tourists to begin their holiday almost immediately after landing. The uniqueness of this air harbour lies in its ambitious expansion project: the runway is being extended directly into the sea, promising passengers breathtaking views over the water during landing.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main advantage of the airport is its convenient location. It is situated in the immediate vicinity of the city and the resort zone, so transfers to most hotels take merely a few minutes. This is particularly valuable for travellers wishing to save time on the road.

The airport is actively being modernised. The construction of a new terminal and the unique marine runway aims to transform it into a modern hub capable of receiving wide-body aircraft and guests from all over the world. Despite its compact size, a friendly atmosphere prevails here, and navigation is intuitively clear even for those visiting Bangladesh for the first time.

Below you will find contact information for Cox's Bazar Airport (CXB), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: The airport is managed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB). The agency's official website, where general information can be found, is caab.gov.bd. Cox's Bazar Airport does not have a separate website.
• Inquiry Service Phone: To contact the airport administration, you may use the number: +880 341 63586. For questions related to tickets and schedules, please contact your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Cox's Bazar, 4700, Bangladesh.
• Email: For written enquiries, you may use the address: apmcox@caab.gov.bd.
• Social Media: Official social media accounts for the airport are not maintained at this time. We recommend trusting only information from official airline representatives and airport services.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact the Lost & Found counter of the airline you arrived with.
• Passenger Support Service: For general information, please use the phone number listed above. To resolve issues regarding special services (e.g., assistance for passengers with reduced mobility), it is necessary to contact your airline's representative office in advance.

Cox's Bazar Airport (CXB) is located very close to the main tourist areas of the city, so getting to or from your hotel is straightforward. The journey from the city centre usually takes just 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Taxis and Auto-rickshaws (CNG) are the most popular and convenient modes of transport. You can easily find them in any part of the city. The cost of the trip is low, but it is strongly recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance, before starting the journey, to avoid misunderstandings. Many hotels can also assist with calling a reliable taxi or organising a transfer for their guests, which is a safe and convenient option.

Public Transport in the form of city buses does not have direct routes to the airport terminal. Although some local buses may pass nearby, this option is not very convenient for tourists with luggage and may require an additional walk. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the airport in Cox's Bazar.

Car Rental and Parking. Car rental services are available in the city; however, tourists most often prefer to hire a car with a driver. This eliminates the need to navigate local traffic peculiarities. If you do decide to travel by your own or rented vehicle, parking is available at the airport where you can leave your car for a short or long duration.

For travellers arriving from other countries, it is worth noting that Cox's Bazar Airport mainly serves domestic flights. The largest international hub in the region is Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram, located approximately 90 km away. From there, Cox's Bazar can be reached by bus or taxi in 3-4 hours.

Cox's Bazar Airport (CXB) is a compact and easy-to-navigate aviation hub currently served by one main terminal. The terminal building is used for both domestic arrivals and departures, making it extremely convenient for passengers travelling within Bangladesh. Due to its small size, it is practically impossible to get lost here, and all key zones are within walking distance of each other.

The airport layout is extremely simple. Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the public area where check-in counters for several local airlines are located. After receiving a boarding pass, passengers proceed to the security screening area, and then to a small departure lounge. The arrival area is located in the same part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city. Since there is only one terminal, no transfers or shuttles are required.

Completing all pre-flight procedures at Cox's Bazar Airport usually takes little time. Flight check-in and security screening are quite fast compared to major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1–1.5 hours before a domestic flight departure to check in luggage and pass through controls without rushing.

It is important to note that active construction of a new international terminal is currently underway, which will significantly expand the airport's capabilities. Once opened, CXB will be able to receive flights from other countries, and the infrastructure will include modern amenities, aerobridges, and expanded passenger zones. However, at present, all operations are concentrated in the older but functional building.

For comfortable navigation through the airport, simply follow the signs, which are generally duplicated in English. All necessary services — from check-in counters to the waiting lounge and boarding gates — are located close to each other, ensuring quick and hassle-free movement through the terminal.

The history of Cox's Bazar Airport (CXB) is a journey from a modest military airfield to a modern international transport hub. Its story began during the Second World War when it was built by the British Royal Air Force in 1942 for operations on the Burma front. At that time, it was a strategically important landing strip providing support to Allied forces in the region.

After the war ended, the airfield was handed over to civil authorities and began functioning as a domestic airport. Over the decades, it played a key role in the development of tourism, connecting Cox's Bazar with Dhaka and other major cities in Bangladesh. Gradually, as the resort's popularity grew, so did the need to modernise the air gateway. The airport mainly served turboprop aircraft but was already vital to the region's economy.

The most significant phase in the airport's history began in the 2010s with the launch of a massive project to transform it into an international facility. A key element of the modernisation was the extension of the runway. Its length was increased from 9,000 feet (2,743 m) to 10,700 feet (3,261 m), with part of the runway built on land reclaimed from the sea. This made Cox's Bazar Airport the first in the country to possess a runway extending into the Bay of Bengal.

In addition to the runway expansion, the project includes the construction of a new modern terminal capable of serving international flights and receiving wide-body aircraft. These transformations not only open Cox's Bazar to direct flights from Southeast Asia and the Middle East but also strengthen its status as an important logistical hub, including for supporting humanitarian missions in the region. Thus, the former military airfield has turned into a symbol of growth and the future tourism potential of Bangladesh.

Cox's Bazar Airport (CXB) provides passengers with a set of essential services and amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite being a relatively small airport, it has everything needed for travellers arriving at the most popular resort in Bangladesh.

In the terminal, you will find several cafés and snack bars where you can have a snack, tea, or coffee. The assortment consists mainly of local dishes, sandwiches, and beverages. Small shops are also in operation, offering souvenirs, essential goods, and newspapers. The selection may not be as extensive as in major international hubs, but basic needs will be met.

For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, there is a VIP Lounge at the airport. Access is usually granted to business class passengers or for a separate fee. Regarding connectivity, points for charging electronic devices can be found in the terminal building. Wi-Fi access may be limited, so it is recommended to check conditions on-site or use mobile data.

Currency exchange counters and ATMs function at the airport, allowing passengers to withdraw cash or exchange money upon arrival. For emergencies, a medical post is available where first aid can be provided.

For travellers with special needs, assistance services are available: airport staff will assist passengers with reduced mobility in moving through the terminal if a request is made in advance through the airline. Families with small children can count on basic amenities, including mother and child rooms.

There are no hotels directly on the airport premises; however, since it is located very close to the city, you will easily find numerous accommodation options within a few minutes' drive. Specialised conference rooms or business centres are absent in the terminal; for business meetings, it is better to use the facilities of hotels in Cox's Bazar.

Cox's Bazar Airport (CXB), being a regional hub, offers a modest but sufficient selection of establishments for passengers wishing to have a snack before departure. You will not find major international chains here, but you will be able to experience authentic local cuisine in small cafés and snack bars.

The main dining points are located in the main terminal building, primarily in the public area before security control (landside). After security (airside), the choice is usually limited to a small kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks. Therefore, if you are counting on a full meal, it is better to do so before checking in for your flight and passing through control.

What to try?

For a quick snack, local savouries are ideal, such as singara (a spiced pastry with vegetable or meat filling, similar to a samosa) or other savoury pastries. If you have time for a full lunch, pay attention to traditional dishes: chicken or fish curry with rice, as well as aromatic biryani. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the flavours of Bangladesh before departure.

Useful information for passengers:

• Special Dietary Requirements: Virtually all food offered at the airport is Halal. Vegetarians will also find it easy to find suitable dishes based on vegetables and lentils. However, specialised vegan or gluten-free options are rare, so it is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff.
• Prices: The cost of food and drinks at Cox's Bazar Airport is quite moderate, especially in comparison with major international airports.
• Opening Hours: Establishments operate in accordance with the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first flight and closing after the last departure.

Thus, although the selection at CXB airport is not vast, it allows passengers to comfortably have a snack or even lunch, offering simple and tasty dishes of local cuisine. For greater variety, it is better to eat in the city itself before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through Cox's Bazar Airport goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, we have prepared a few useful tips. The airport mainly serves domestic flights, but its infrastructure is constantly developing.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Bangladesh, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient for a calm check-in and security screening. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this facility. Keep your passport and ticket handy for quick verification.

Security Checks and Seat Selection. Screening procedures at the airport are standard. To avoid delays, pack all liquids over 100 ml in your checked luggage in advance. When choosing a seat on the plane, especially on flights flying along the coast, ask for a window seat. You may be treated to stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and the longest beach in the world.

Hand Luggage. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in hand luggage. Ensure that all valuables, documents, medication, and portable chargers are with you in the cabin. This is particularly important in case of flight delays or lost luggage.

Transfers and Customs. Cox's Bazar Airport is rarely used as a transit hub. If you do have a planned transfer, check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. When passing through customs control (relevant for international flights, which are gradually being introduced), be prepared to present your passport, visa, and completed declaration if required.

Saving Money and Flight Delays. To save money, book flight tickets in advance and compare prices for taxis or rickshaws to the city. In the event of a flight delay, contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (meals or drinks). There is not much entertainment at the airport, so in case of a long wait, it is better to have a book or charged gadgets with you.