Dhaka:The government is preparing to purchase 10 aircraft from the European manufacturer Airbus for Biman Bangladesh Airlines, following a recent agreement with Boeing for 25 aircraft.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat announced at a press briefing that the agreement with Airbus is expected to be finalized in October. This move comes after Bangladesh signed a deal with Boeing, although the Boeing aircraft will not arrive immediately.
The minister clarified that under the Boeing agreement, the first aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2031, with a request to Boeing for at least one aircraft by 2027-28. The full delivery of the 25 Boeing aircraft is planned to occur in phases through 2035-37, with payments to be made upon delivery of each aircraft.
The total cost for the 25 Boeing aircraft is estimated at $6.4 billion. The previous agreement for 14 aircraft was valued at $3.7 billion, and the newly added 11 aircraft will cost around $2.7 billion, with prices set in line with the earlier deal.
To address the delay in aircraft arrivals, the government plans to lease at least 10 aircraft to expand Biman's fleet. A committee, led by the finance secretary and including representatives from relevant stakeholders, is overseeing the leasing process to ensure transparency.
Minister Millat emphasized the 'Bangladesh First' approach in making aircraft purchase decisions, focusing on benefits for the country rather than external influences. The government aims to choose sources that best support the development of Bangladesh's aviation sector.