Your first international flight from Dhaka: the airport step by step

An international departure has a few more steps than a domestic flight, but it is simple once you know the order. This guide walks you through a departure from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka.

Before you leave home

• Passport valid for at least six months, and any visa you need for your destination.
• E-ticket and booking reference, on your phone and printed.
• Any documents your destination or purpose of travel requires (for example an employment visa or invitation letter). If you are travelling abroad for work, check the clearance requirements that apply to you before your travel date.
• Check your baggage allowance and weigh your bags at home.
• Check in online if your airline allows it — it can save time at the airport.

1. Arrive early

Arrive at least three hours before an international flight. Traffic in Dhaka and queues at the terminal can both take longer than expected, and check-in counters close before departure.

2. Terminal entry

You may be asked to show your ticket and passport to enter the departure terminal. Your bags are screened at the entrance.

3. Check-in

Find your airline’s counter on the departure screens. Show your passport (and visa, if needed). Your checked bags are weighed and tagged, and you receive your boarding pass. Check that your bag tags show your final destination if you have a connection.

4. Immigration

Go to departure immigration with your passport and boarding pass. The officer checks your documents and stamps your passport. Answer questions simply and have your supporting documents ready.

5. Security

Your hand luggage is screened. Liquids in hand luggage are limited to small containers in a clear bag; power banks must be in hand luggage, not checked bags. Remove laptops if asked.

6. Boarding

Find your gate on the screens and be there by the boarding time on your pass — boarding usually starts well before departure and closes before it. Keep your passport and boarding pass in hand.

On board and on arrival

• Keep your passport with you, not in the overhead locker.
• Some countries give you an arrival card to fill in on the plane.
• After landing: immigration, baggage collection, then customs.

Have a safe trip! Search flights or browse popular routes from Bangladesh.