Shamshernagar Airport (IATA: ZHM, ICAO: VGSH), situated approximately 17 kilometres southeast of Moulvibazar in the Sylhet Division of Bangladesh, stands as a testament to both historical prominence and potential future utility. Currently operated by the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF), this facility serves military purposes and accommodates limited civil aviation activities upon prior approval.
Shamshernagar Airport
Historical Significance
World War II Contributions
Established during the Second World War, Shamshernagar Airport played a pivotal role in the Allied forces’ operations. It functioned as a crucial hub for the perilous “Over the Hump” airlift missions, facilitating the transport of supplies from British India to China over the Himalayas. The U.S. 61st Air Service Group was stationed here in the war’s final months. Notably, the site housed an “Advance Chemical Park,” containing stockpiles of M79 chemical bombs filled with cyanogen chloride, intended for potential use in chemical warfare.
Bangladesh Liberation War
During the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, Shamshernagar Airport served as the base for the nascent Bangladesh Air Force’s first combat formation, known as “Kilo Flight.” This unit comprised a DC-3 Dakota, a DHC-3 Otter, and an Alouette III helicopter, marking the embryonic stages of Bangladesh’s aerial defense capabilities.
Notable Incidents
On 31 December 1970, a Pakistan International Airlines Fokker F-27 Friendship 200 crash-landed short of Shamshernagar’s runway, resulting in the tragic loss of seven lives among the 31 passengers on board.
Current Status and Prospects
Presently, Shamshernagar Airport lacks scheduled commercial flights, primarily due to insufficient passenger demand and the runway’s limitations, which restrict operations to Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) aircraft. However, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has expressed intentions to rejuvenate several dormant airports, including Shamshernagar, as part of a strategic roadmap aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and economic development.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Runway Designation | 17/35 |
| Runway Length | 1,585 meters (5,200 feet) |
| Runway Surface | Concrete |
| Elevation | 18 meters (58 feet) above sea level |
| Coordinates | 24°23’47″N, 91°54’49″E |
| Operational Use | Military (BAF) and limited civil aviation |
| Aircraft Compatibility | STOL aircraft only |
Future Outlook
The potential revitalization of Shamshernagar Airport aligns with broader governmental efforts to bolster the nation’s aviation infrastructure. By addressing logistical challenges and investing in necessary upgrades, Shamshernagar could once again emerge as a vital node in Bangladesh’s air transportation network, honoring its rich historical legacy while serving contemporary needs.
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