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British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke has backed proposed investments by Airbus and Menzies Aviation in Bangladesh, saying their expertise, technology and skills could help strengthen the country’s aviation sector and international connectivity.
“In this context, the UK is excited about the opportunities presented by the proposed Airbus and Menzies Aviation investments in Bangladesh,” she said.
Cooke made the remarks at a reception hosted by the British High Commission in Dhaka on Tuesday evening, attended by Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat as chief guest.
She said the two proposed investments could support Bangladesh’s broader aviation development, with Airbus potentially helping Biman Bangladesh Airlines modernise its fleet and develop maintenance capabilities, while Menzies seeks to bring international ground-handling expertise to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s (HSIA) Third Terminal.
“Achieving these ambitions will require not only investment in infrastructure, but strong international partnerships that bring expertise, technology and skills,” Cooke said.
She said Airbus’ proposal could support Biman’s future growth through a modern mixed fleet, while also creating opportunities for training and skills development.
Airbus has also indicated its willingness to help develop maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in Bangladesh, she said. Such facilities could create jobs, develop technical skills and generate future revenue.
Cooke also highlighted Menzies Aviation’s proposed investment as Bangladesh prepares to introduce a second passenger ground handler at the Third Terminal.
“We’re equally excited about the opportunity presented by Menzies Aviation,” she said.
Menzies operates at more than 350 airports worldwide and provides passenger, cargo and ground-handling services, according to Cooke.
The company plans to make a significant investment in Bangladesh, including creating more than 1,000 jobs at the Third Terminal and establishing an aviation training academy.
Menzies is competing for the second passenger ground-handling operation at HSIA’s Third Terminal. It has previously announced plans to invest more than US$12 million in its first year if selected, including spending on ground support equipment, aviation technology and workforce development.
Cooke said the UK has extensive expertise across the aviation value chain, from aircraft manufacturing and airport operations to passenger services, technology and ground handling.
She said investment in the Third Terminal could improve passenger experience and strengthen Bangladesh’s position as an increasingly connected international destination.
The High Commissioner also referred to the memorandum of understanding on aviation cooperation signed between Bangladesh and the UK earlier this year, saying it reflected a shared commitment to strengthening connectivity, attracting investment and expanding aviation opportunities.
She said the British High Commission would continue to encourage investment and commercial partnerships between the two countries, while UK Export Finance could support deeper commercial engagement.
The proposed Airbus and Menzies investments, she said, could support two key areas of Bangladesh’s aviation development — modernising airline operations and strengthening airport services.
