Bangladesh plans mixed Boeing-Airbus fleet for Biman’s expansion

Dhaka: The government has confirmed plans to procure both Boeing and Airbus aircraft for Biman Bangladesh Airlines as part of a long-term fleet expansion strategy, saying a mixed fleet best serves the country's aviation and economic interests.

Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July 16, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said, Bangladesh requires aircraft from both manufacturers and will not favor any single supplier.

"We need both Boeing and Airbus, and we will purchase both," she said, adding that the government's procurement decisions are guided solely by national interests.

The Minister also said, the administration is balancing fiscal discipline with investments needed to strengthen key sectors, including civil aviation.

The move follows reports that Bangladesh is considering Airbus aircraft to diversify Biman's fleet while maintaining strategic flexibility. The proposal was discussed during a meeting on July 15 between Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, and senior diplomats from France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, and the European Union.

French Ambassador Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet recently reiterated Airbus' interest in supporting the development of Bangladesh's aviation sector and stressed the importance of a level playing field for European aerospace companies. The issue was also discussed during his recent meeting with Biman Bangladesh Airlines Chairman Rumee A Hossain.