1
National flag carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines will add 10 new aircraft from European aircraft manufacturer Airbus to its fleet. These aircraft are being purchased as part of the government’s mixed-fleet policy. A final agreement with Airbus is expected to be signed by August 31, and the aircraft will gradually join Biman’s fleet from 2031. This news comes from BSS.
State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat confirmed this information to the state news agency BSS. He stated that the agreement with Airbus would be signed by August 31. Detailed information, including price and other terms, will be disclosed after the agreement is signed. He also mentioned that the government is continuing discussions with the utmost importance given to national and commercial interests.
If this decision is implemented, Biman Bangladesh Airlines will operate a full mixed fleet comprising aircraft from both manufacturers—Boeing and Airbus—for the first time. According to the government, this will bring more diversity and flexibility to fleet management in the future.
BSS reports that after a recent decision to purchase 14 aircraft from Boeing, Airbus intensified its proposal in Bangladesh. The company offered to supply four A350-900 wide-body and six A321neo narrow-body aircraft. Later, Airbus Vice President Edward Delahaye visited Dhaka and held meetings with high-level government representatives. Following discussions, the government took a principal decision to purchase 10 Airbus aircraft.
State Minister Millat said that through this decision, Biman’s fleet will include aircraft from both of the world’s two largest aircraft manufacturers—Boeing and Airbus. This is part of the government’s long-term fleet development strategy.
The government is reviewing a plan to expand Biman’s fleet to 47 aircraft by the fiscal year 2034-35. The aim is to modernize the national flag carrier, expand international routes, and establish Bangladesh as an important regional hub for passenger and cargo transport.
Meanwhile, aviation expert ATM Nazrul Islam told BSS that operating a mixed fleet would increase opportunities to use suitable aircraft for different routes and could improve operational efficiency and commercial viability in the long run. However, he also emphasized that fleet expansion requires careful evaluation of route planning, passenger demand, operating costs, and profitability.
