Bangladesh is exploring potential cooperation with AirAsia on ground handling and airport management at the country’s international airports as government officials consider new investment and operational approaches for the aviation sector.

A Bangladeshi delegation visited Malaysia Aug. 17-18, where M Rashiduzzaman Millat, state minister for civil aviation and tourism, met with Capital A Group CEO Tony Fernandes to discuss possible cooperation involving ground handling, airport management and related services.

The delegation also visited AirAsia’s headquarters and operations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2, including Ground Team Red (GTR), the ground services joint venture established by AirAsia and SATS.

During the visit, AirAsia demonstrated operational practices designed to support faster aircraft turnarounds and reduce labor requirements and operating costs. Officials observed automated check-in and self-service baggage drop systems, dual-door boarding, apron operations and digital baggage handling technology.

AirAsia also briefed the delegation on the use of smart technology and integrated aircraft maintenance to support its low-cost operating model. According to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, the operating practices can help enable aircraft to complete six to eight flight sectors per day.

The discussions come as Bangladesh considers potential investment and broader cooperation in its civil aviation sector. No specific agreement or timeline for ground handling cooperation with AirAsia has been announced.

The delegation also toured Asia Digital Engineering’s newly built 14-line maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, which supports AirAsia and other airline customers.