Bangladesh's national carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, is on the verge of expanding its fleet with a purchase of 10 Airbus aircraft, expected to be finalized in the first week of October. This strategic move comes as part of the airline's plans to modernize and diversify its fleet, which currently consists of 19 aircraft, many of which are nearing the end of their operational life.
The upcoming Airbus deal, valued at approximately $2.05 billion based on 2018 list prices, includes four A350-900s and six A321neo jets. Alongside this deal, Biman continues negotiations with Boeing for the acquisition of 25 aircraft, with deliveries planned between 2033 and 2036 or 2037. The airline aims to receive at least one Boeing aircraft earlier, around 2027 or 2028, to meet rising demand and improve service frequency, especially to the Middle East.
Strategic Fleet Expansion
Recent statements from Civil Aviation Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat indicate confidence that the Airbus deal will be finalized soon, with offers including favorable pricing and support services. The government is exploring financing options from European countries to facilitate the purchase, with approximately 85 percent of the cost potentially covered through loans from the UK, Germany, and France.
"We are buying 10 Airbus aircraft. Inshallah, the deal will be signed in October,"
said Minister Millat in a briefing at the Secretariat. The new aircraft are expected to augment Biman's capacity, allowing greater frequency on busy international routes and reducing dependence on foreign carriers which currently dominate passenger traffic, especially in the Middle East.
The airline's ongoing efforts include leasing aircraft to address immediate demand and expand regional connectivity. These expansions are part of Biman's broader strategy to boost the country's tourism and economy, with future plans for new routes including Sydney and Japan, while resuming flights to New York.
Diplomatic and industry officials have underscored that negotiations with Airbus are purely commercial, with no political influence, and highlight the importance of a competitive, fair process for the benefit of Bangladesh's aviation sector.
