European diplomats endorse Airbus plan to strengthen Biman fleet, advance Bangladesh’s aviation goals

Dhaka: European ambassadors and high commissioners from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the European Union in Dhaka have voiced strong support for incorporating Airbus aircraft into Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ fleet. They said that operating a mix of aircraft models would boost the national carrier’s flexibility, resilience, and competitiveness.

On November 4, at an event titled “European Dialogue on Bangladesh Aviation Growth” in the capital, French ambassador-designate Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet highlighted Bangladesh’s strategic location and growing connectivity needs, noting that the country has “all the ingredients to become a regional aviation hub.” He said Airbus has presented a “comprehensive and competitive” proposal to Biman to help achieve that vision.

“The Airbus offer is strongly backed by all four European countries that are part of the multinational company,” Séré-Charlet said, adding that European export credit agencies have already shown interest in supporting the deal. He reaffirmed that Europe stands ready to accompany Bangladesh on its path to becoming a major aviation player in the region.

German Ambassador Rüdiger Lotz pointed out that as Bangladesh’s economy grows and its middle class expands, the need for modern, eco-efficient aircraft is rising — an area where Airbus is well positioned to contribute.

British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke underlined the UK government’s continued support for Bangladesh’s economic growth and its ambition to establish itself as a regional aviation hub.

EU Ambassador Michael Miller emphasized the broader importance of strengthening trade and investment ties between Bangladesh and the European Union.

According to the French envoy, France and its European partners aim to build a long-term partnership with Bangladesh to develop the entire aviation ecosystem. This would include pilot and engineer training, maintenance services, and the transfer of technical know-how — all designed to enhance Biman’s operational strength and human capital.

Airbus officials also shared their assessment of Bangladesh’s aviation growth prospects and reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration with both Biman Bangladesh Airlines and the government.

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