Biman Flight to London Cancelled After Ground Mishap at Sylhet Airport

SYLHET, Bangladesh — A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight from Sylhet Osmani International Airport to London was cancelled on Wednesday morning after a ground-handling incident caused damage to one of the aircraft’s engines.

According to airport officials, the aircraft had completed boarding with more than 260 passengers and was preparing for departure when the passenger boarding bridge accidentally struck the engine area. The impact led engineers to immediately halt the flight and conduct safety checks.

“The aircraft will remain grounded until a full safety assessment is completed. Passenger safety is our top concern,” said an airport official.

Cause Under Investigation

Initial findings suggest the incident may have been the result of human error while detaching the boarding bridge. Airport and airline authorities have both launched internal investigations to determine the exact cause and prevent similar events in the future.

All passengers and crew members were safely escorted off the aircraft, and no injuries were reported. The affected aircraft remains under inspection by maintenance teams.

Replacement Aircraft Sent from Dhaka

To reduce passenger disruption, Biman Bangladesh Airlines dispatched a replacement aircraft from Dhaka. The new plane is expected to transport the stranded passengers to London once all necessary safety and technical checks are complete.

Many travelers expressed appreciation for the airline’s focus on safety, though some voiced frustration over the extended delay and lack of timely updates inside the terminal.

Safety and Ground Handling Concerns

This incident highlights the importance of strict ground-handling safety at airports. While most passengers associate flight safety with the time spent in the air, many operational risks occur during ground operations such as refueling, baggage handling, and bridge positioning.

Aviation experts note that even minor ground incidents can cause major delays, financial loss, and reputational challenges for airlines.

Biman’s Response and Next Steps

Biman Bangladesh Airlines confirmed that it is reviewing ground-handling procedures and retraining staff to ensure higher safety standards at Sylhet and other major airports. The airline emphasized that passenger safety remains its highest priority.

Although the London-bound flight’s cancellation caused inconvenience, Biman’s prompt response and commitment to safety were praised by many within the aviation community.

Source used: Aviation Desk | Updated: October 29, 2025