The government is finalizing plans to acquire 14 Boeing aircraft and considering interim Airbus leasing to fill a five-year delivery gap as part of a broader strategy to modernize and expand Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ fleet. State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat stated that while the purchase deal for the Boeing aircraft is nearly complete, formal signing is pending. He highlighted the potential for procurement of aircraft and energy resources from the US to help balance trade between Dhaka and Washington.
Although the government has shown interest in the Boeing purchase, the state minister suggested that the incoming government might review the offer before finalizing the agreement. The proposed order, estimated at around $3.7 billion, includes a combination of Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 737 MAX planes to enhance both long-haul and regional operations in the coming years.
To address immediate fleet shortages during the lengthy delivery period, the government plans to lease aircraft, preferably through dry leasing, for the next five years. Airbus is being considered for leasing options, aligning with a strategic move to diversify Biman’s fleet composition while ensuring operational continuity.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines currently operates international routes with approximately 14 aircraft, falling short of the 30 to 35 planes required to meet rising passenger demand and support network expansion. The state minister emphasized that the government’s approach of long-term acquisition and short-term leasing aims to stabilize operations and pave the way for sustained growth.
In efforts to improve efficiency and passenger services, the government has initiated comprehensive reviews of Biman’s operational structure, along with recruitment drives to address critical manpower gaps within the organization. Regarding hajj operations, preparations have been finalized to ensure smooth and uninterrupted flights for pilgrims.
The overarching goal is to elevate Biman into an international-standard airline through structural reforms, fleet expansion, and enhanced service quality, as highlighted by the state minister.