Aviation Advisor Vows Strict Action Against Air Ticket Syndicate

Dhaka, August 25, 2025: Sheikh Bashiruddin, the Advisor to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, has warned that those involved in syndicates inflating air ticket prices will face severe consequences. "Give me some time, and no one involved in this syndicate will escape justice," he declared during a press conference addressing measures to curb abnormal air ticket price hikes and ensure safe marine tourism.

Speaking on Monday, Bashiruddin highlighted the issue of ticket price manipulation, stating that while there are about 5,000 registered travel agencies in the country, over 20,000 unregistered agents are operating, creating an artificial crisis. "From small shops to various outlets, these agents work together to manipulate ticket prices. Our investigations revealed that even manpower exporters own travel agencies," he said. Despite directives to display ticket prices, the advisor noted non-compliance by travel agencies. "Our investigations show that not only offline but also online travel agents are engaging in serious malpractices. Tickets for our country are being sold from abroad," he added. When asked if a list of rogue travel agents was being compiled, Bashiruddin confirmed, "We have certainly made a list. For the sake of the investigation, we won’t disclose numbers. We aim to stop this chaos comprehensively by working with all stakeholders." He further revealed that magistrates have been assigned specific destinations where irregularities are most prevalent. "Each magistrate must submit a daily report based on four specific areas. Based on these reports, we will fully exercise our legal authority, no matter who is involved," he emphasized. Currently, four magistrates are deployed at the airport, with plans to add one more. Bashiruddin vowed to scrutinize the tax files of any travel agent linked to the syndicate. "Give me some time. I assure you, no one will escape accountability, whether they are family, friends, or acquaintances. Those involved in this chaos will face justice," he asserted.

Under the 2013 Travel Agency Act, failure to display ticket prices can lead to license cancellation and imprisonment. The press conference was attended by Nasreen Jahan, Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, along with other officials.