Today, October 18, 2025, approximately at noon Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka) A fire broke out in the cargo disabled section. The fire, which started around 2 am, spread so rapidly that take-offs and landings at the entire airport were postponed till night.
The cause of the fire and how it spread
According to official sources, the fire broke out in a part of the cargo terminal where huge quantities of cargo and chemicals were stored. Due to the dense smoke, the runway and the surrounding area were shrouded in haze, due to which fire brigade, army and border guarding forces were activated. About 36 to 37 fire fighting units were involved in controlling the incident.
Due to the intensity of the smoke and fire, both nearby airport operations and security were affected.
Flights affected, panic among passengers
After this fire, it was decided to “immediately stop all flights”. Many domestic and international flights to and from Dhaka had to be diverted to other airports. For example, a Saber flight Shah Amanat International Airport (Chittagong) and each other Osmani International Airport Landed in (Sylhet).
Six international flights and other domestic traffic were also in the process of being diverted or cancelled.
During this period, there was confusion and travel interruptions among the passengers.
How much damage and what has happened so far
It was told on the spot that no plane has suffered major damage so far and no passenger casualties have been reported. However, the loss of goods and chemicals stored in the cargo compartment is estimated to be heavy.
Multiple agencies including Army-Navy-BGB are working jointly to control the fire. The administration has said that flight operations will not take place until security checks are completed.
What matters to ordinary people?
If you are going to or from Dhaka, check your flight status with the airline immediately.
Find alternative airports and new times in case of any diversion or cancellation.
Those sending goods from Dhaka Airport through retail or e-commerce will also have to exercise caution as the mass flow in the cargo department may be affected.
This incident shows that it is not just the runway or the airplane, but the airport’s cargo, storage, security processes are equally important — even a small mistake can turn into a major crisis.