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Bangladesh is set to sign a final agreement with European aircraft manufacturer Airbus by August 31 to purchase 10 new aircraft for Biman Bangladesh Airlines, marking a major step in the national carrier’s transition to a mixed fleet strategy.
State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat confirmed the development on Tuesday, saying the new aircraft will be delivered in phases beginning in 2031.
He said the government would disclose the purchase price, financing structure and other contractual details after the agreement is signed. According to the minister, negotiations are being conducted with the highest priority given to Bangladesh’s national and commercial interests.
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita said the gradual shift to a mixed fleet would enhance competition in future aircraft procurement and reduce the airline’s dependence on a single manufacturer.
The Airbus acquisition follows the government’s earlier decision to purchase 14 Boeing aircraft in a deal valued at approximately $3.7 billion. The Boeing order includes eight 787-10 Dreamliners, two 787-9 Dreamliners and four 737 MAX 8 aircraft.
Officials familiar with the process said Airbus strengthened its proposal after the Boeing decision, offering four A350-900 wide-body aircraft and six A321neo narrow-body aircraft to Biman.
Airbus Vice President Edward Delahaye recently visited Dhaka to discuss the proposal with the civil aviation minister, the state minister and senior Biman officials. The issue was also discussed during meetings with diplomats from the European Union and several European countries.
Under the proposed fleet plan, the A350-900 aircraft will be deployed on long-haul international routes, while the A321neo jets will operate on regional, Gulf and medium-haul Asian destinations.
Once implemented, Biman Bangladesh Airlines will operate aircraft from both Boeing and Airbus, the world’s two largest commercial aircraft manufacturers, representing a significant shift in the airline’s fleet management strategy.
The government is currently implementing a long-term plan to expand Biman’s fleet to 47 aircraft by the 2034-35 fiscal year. The initiative aims to modernise the national carrier, expand its international network and position Bangladesh as a regional hub for passenger and cargo aviation.
Last week, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said Bangladesh requires aircraft from both Boeing and Airbus, stressing that future procurement decisions would be guided by the country’s economic interests rather than preference for any particular country.
A senior government official said Bangladesh is pursuing a competitive and cost-effective aircraft procurement policy based on economic considerations. He added that the inclusion of both Boeing and Airbus aircraft in the national carrier’s fleet reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding national interests while supporting trade, investment and the long-term development of the aviation sector.
