Dhaka: State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir today emphasized that Bangladesh’s decision to acquire Boeing aircraft stems from the nation’s expanding aviation needs, countering claims that the decision was made under external pressure.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Kobir clarified during a press briefing at the Foreign Ministry that the procurement aligns with the strategic requirements of Bangladesh’s aviation sector. The minister’s remarks came in response to a statement by US Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs and Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, suggesting Bangladesh’s substantial financial commitment to purchasing additional Boeing aircraft.
Kobir highlighted the necessity for Bangladesh to grow its aircraft fleet in order to launch new routes, boost passenger numbers, and increase revenue, thereby positioning the country as a significant aviation hub in the region. He pointed out that a larger fleet is essential for transforming Bangladesh into an aviation gateway in Asia, a goal that necessitates serving numerous new routes.
Drawing a comparison with Ethiopian Airlines, which operates over 150 aircraft, Kobir suggested that Bangladesh may need 70 to 80 aircraft or even more in the next decade. He mentioned the importance of acquiring aircraft from manufacturers like Boeing or Airbus to fulfill long-term aviation objectives.
The state minister acknowledged the current insufficiency in fleet capacity, which could hinder Bangladesh’s aviation ambitions. He stressed the importance of aligning aircraft procurement with the country’s aviation needs and financial capabilities to expand its reach to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
Kobir also reaffirmed Bangladesh’s balanced foreign policy, maintaining strong relations with both the United States and China, with Washington being a key development partner. He expressed Dhaka’s interest in deepening trade and investment ties with the US.
Gor’s comments, shared via social media, hinted at a significant upcoming deal purportedly brokered by US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, involving billions of dollars in Boeing aircraft purchases. However, Gor did not provide details on the number or models of aircraft involved.
Earlier, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam suggested that Gor’s comments might have been related to a previously concluded Boeing deal. The Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry confirmed that no new Boeing agreement has been signed beyond the existing order for 14 aircraft.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines finalized a deal with Boeing on April 30 for 14 aircraft, including eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, two 787-9 Dreamliners, and four 737-8 MAX aircraft. This acquisition marks the largest aircraft order in the national flag carrier’s history, aimed at modernizing its fleet, enhancing long-haul capacity, and bolstering regional operations as Bangladesh seeks to expand its global aviation presence.