Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Altaf Hossain Chowdhury is a prominent political leader and former Chief of the Bangladesh Air Force. He served as the Air Force Chief from 1991 to 1995 and later joined politics, becoming a senior member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). During Khaleda Zia’s government (2001–2004), he served as the Home Minister of Bangladesh. Chowdhury began his career as a fighter pilot in the Pakistan Air Force, later becoming the chief pilot of the Dassault Mirage III. In 1971, he was a Flight Lieutenant, and following Bangladesh’s independence, he joined the Bangladesh Air Force in 1972 as a Squadron Leader. From 1974 to 1977, he worked as an instructor at the Pilot Training School. After retiring from military service in 1995, he entered politics with the BNP, serving as a minister and Member of Parliament during 2001–2006.
In his home district of Patuakhali, Altaf Chowdhury has gained widespread popularity due to his extensive development initiatives. While serving as a minister, he oversaw the construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure, transforming the district into a more modern area. He also contributed to the construction of mosques, temples, and community facilities in his local upazila, Azapara, earning respect and admiration across communities regardless of religion.
Chowdhury served as the President of Patuakhali District BNP in 2008 and contested in the 2008 and 2018 general elections, though he was defeated by Awami League candidate Shahjahan Mia. Since 2016, he has been serving as the Vice Chairman of the BNP.
Known for his humility and strong local connections, Chowdhury continues to engage with ordinary citizens and seeks their support through personal interactions. Community members express strong loyalty to him, with many predicting a high level of voter support in upcoming elections. His emphasis on development and communal harmony has earned him goodwill from people across religious and social backgrounds.Altaf Chowdhury is married to Suria Chowdhury and they have one daughter, who resides abroad. His long-standing service in both the military and politics has established him as a respected figure in Patuakhali and a prominent leader within the BNP.