Rajshahi Airport

Rajshahi Airport, also known as Shah Makhdum Airport, serves as the main air gateway to the "Silk City" and the Mango Capital of Bangladesh. This cosy regional aviation hub connects the picturesque banks of the Padma River with bustling Dhaka, offering travellers the fastest way to reach the northern part of the country. There is no hustle of giant hubs here; instead, an atmosphere of tranquility reigns, setting the mood for a pleasant introduction to the rich culture and history of the region.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Despite its modest size, Rajshahi Airport plays a key role in the region's transport system and offers a number of advantages for tourists:

• Compactness and Speed: Thanks to the small terminal, all pre-flight procedures, from check-in to boarding, take minimum time. There are practically no long queues here, which are typical of capital city airports.
• Proximity to the City: The airport is located just a 20-minute drive from the centre of Rajshahi, allowing travellers to quickly reach their hotel or immediately head to the sights.
• Access to Unique Locations: This is the ideal starting point for visiting the famous Puthia Temple Complex, the Varendra Research Museum, and the mango orchards for which this region is renowned.
• Comfortable Navigation: The intuitive layout makes it impossible to get lost, making the flight comfortable even for inexperienced travellers.

To obtain current information regarding the operations of Rajshahi Airport (RJH), flight schedules, and passenger services, you may use the following contact details:

• Official Website: Detailed information about the airport is available on the portal of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), which manages the airport.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +880 721 761365. We recommend considering the time difference when calling from another country.
• Address: Airport Road, Nowdapara, Rajshahi, Bangladesh.
• Email: apmrajshahi@caab.gov.bd.
• Social Media: Specialized social media accounts for the airport are not maintained. News and updates can be found on official CAAB resources.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the support service of the airline you flew with directly. Airport staff do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions and consultations, you may contact the airport via the main inquiry service phone number.

Rajshahi Airport is located close to the city of the same name, making the journey there quick and convenient. The trip from the central part of Rajshahi to the terminal usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxis and Motorized Rickshaws (CNG) are the most common and recommended way to reach the airport. This is a fast and relatively inexpensive option. Motorized rickshaws, or "CNGs" as they are called in Bangladesh, will cost less than a traditional taxi. Important tip: always agree on the fare with the driver in advance to avoid misunderstandings, as taximeters are rarely used.

There is no direct public transport, such as dedicated shuttle buses, to the airport. Although local buses run through the city, finding a route that goes directly to the terminal would be difficult and inconvenient, especially with luggage. For short trips, locals actively use cycle rickshaws, but they are not suitable for the journey to the airport.

Car rental in the traditional sense (self-drive) is not common among tourists. A much more popular and practical service is booking a transfer or chauffeur-driven car rental. This service can be booked through your hotel or a local travel agency. This is the most comfortable, albeit more expensive method, which guarantees a fixed price and timely arrival.

For those travelling by their own or rented transport, car parking is provided at Rajshahi Airport. It is located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal and is suitable for both short stops to drop off passengers and longer vehicle storage during your absence.

Rajshahi Airport (RJH) is a small and compact aviation hub, making navigation extremely simple and convenient for passengers. There is one terminal in operation here, which serves both domestic departures and arrivals.

The structure of the terminal is intuitive. Immediately after entering the building, you find yourself in the public area where airline check-in counters are located. Since the airport handles a limited number of flights, there are rarely large queues here. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, which is just a few steps from the check-in counters.

Beyond the security zone lies a single departure lounge for all departing flights. The arrival area is also located in the same building and consists of a baggage claim hall with one belt and an exit to the city. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, transitions between all zones — from the entrance to the boarding gate — take minimum time. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

Check-in and security screening at Rajshahi Airport usually proceed very quickly. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before your flight departure. This time is more than sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing. No special maps are required for navigation — all key points are in direct line of sight and equipped with clear signage.

Rajshahi Airport, officially known as Shah Makhdum Airport, began its history in 1984. Its creation was an important step in the development of the transport infrastructure of the northern region of Bangladesh. The main goal was to ensure reliable and rapid air communication between the city of Rajshahi, a major educational and industrial centre, and the country's capital, Dhaka. The airport was named in honour of the revered Sufi saint Shah Makhdum Rupos, highlighting the region's deep cultural roots.

Since its opening, Rajshahi Airport has served as a key transport hub for business travellers, students, and tourists. For decades, it has received flights from national carriers, contributing to economic growth and population mobility. Although the airport is not associated with loud historical events of a global scale, its main role has always been the stable and uninterrupted performance of its functions. This has allowed the region to remain connected with the rest of the country, which is especially important for the development of trade and education.

Over time, the airport's infrastructure has been gradually modernized to meet modern aviation requirements and growing passenger traffic. The runway, terminal, and navigation equipment have been improved. In recent years, plans to grant the airport international status have been actively discussed. Such modernization could open direct flights to neighbouring countries and significantly increase the tourism and economic potential of both Rajshahi itself and the entire northern Bangladesh, transforming it into an even more important air gateway for the region.

Rajshahi Airport (RJH), serving the eponymous city in Bangladesh, provides passengers with a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several small cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat or drink coffee. There are also shops offering essential goods, beverages, and local souvenirs.

For the convenience of passengers, mobile device charging stations are provided in the waiting halls. Wi-Fi access may be limited, so it is recommended to check connection conditions on-site. In addition to general waiting areas, a small VIP lounge may operate at the airport for business class passengers or loyalty card holders, offering a quieter environment.

ATMs for cash withdrawals are located on the airport premises. Currency exchange points are less common, as the airport mainly serves domestic flights. A medical unit operates to provide first aid. A mother and child room may be available for passengers with children. Travellers with disabilities are provided with necessary assistance, including wheelchairs, however, it is recommended to book this service in advance through the airline.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself. The nearest accommodation options can be found in the city of Rajshahi, which is easily accessible by taxi. Specialized business centres or conference halls are absent at the airport; for business meetings, it is better to utilize the infrastructure of city hotels.

Rajshahi Airport (RJH), being a small domestic airport, offers basic but convenient options for a snack before departure. It is important to understand that there is no great variety of restaurants here, as found in major international hubs, and all food outlets are concentrated in the main, public area (landside) before passing security control.

Typically, one or two small cafeterias or kiosks operate in the terminal building. They are ideal for a quick snack. The menu usually includes:

• Hot drinks: tea and instant coffee.
• Cold drinks: bottled water, juices, and fizzy drinks.
• Snacks: sandwiches, local pastries (such as samosas), biscuits, crisps, and other packaged snacks.

There are no full-service restaurants with hot meals for lunch or dinner at the airport. If you wish to try authentic local cuisine, for which the city of Rajshahi is famous, it is better to do so in the city itself before travelling to the airport. Regarding special dietary needs, virtually all food in Bangladesh is Halal. Simple vegetarian snacks can be found, however, specialized vegan or gluten-free options are likely absent here.

Prices at the airport are slightly higher than in the city but remain quite affordable. The opening hours of food outlets are directly linked to the flight schedule — they open before the first departure and close after the last aircraft leaves. Our advice: if you have a long journey ahead or simply want a substantial meal, it is better to do so in the city beforehand.

Travelling through Rajshahi Airport can be simple and convenient if you prepare in advance. By following a few tips, you can avoid unnecessary stress and make the start or end of your trip to Bangladesh as comfortable as possible. Rajshahi Airport (RJH) serves mainly domestic flights, making it less busy compared to international hubs.

Arrival time at the airport. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete check-in, baggage drop, and pre-flight security screening. Although queues here are usually shorter than at major airports, it is better to have a time buffer in case of unforeseen situations.

Check-in and screening. Check-in and screening procedures at Rajshahi Airport are standard. To speed up the process, have your passport, ticket, or boarding pass ready. Completing online check-in in advance will help save time, especially if you are travelling without checked luggage. During screening, be prepared to remove electronic devices and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

What can and cannot be carried in hand luggage. Standard international rules apply here: liquids are permitted in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, explosives, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check current regulations on your airline's website to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Seat selection on the plane. During online check-in or at the airport counter, take a minute to select a seat. If you want to enjoy the views during takeoff and landing, choose a window seat. If the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours is important to you, or you plan to disembark among the first, your choice is an aisle seat.

Transfer passengers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be checked through automatically to the final destination. At the airport, follow signs for "Transfers" or "Connecting Flights". Since the airport is small, navigation will not cause difficulties.

Customs control. Since Rajshahi Airport serves predominantly domestic flights, passengers travelling within Bangladesh do not need to pass customs control. This procedure is relevant only for international flights.

Saving time and money.

• Check in online if possible.
• Travel light, with only hand luggage, to avoid waiting for baggage upon arrival.
• Book a taxi or transfer in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a car on the spot.
• Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security to avoid spending on drinks.

In case of flight delay. First, contact a representative of your airline for information on the flight status and further actions. Depending on the duration of the delay, the airline may be obliged to provide drinks, meals, and for long waits, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for incidental expenses if you have travel insurance.