Bangladesh signs deal to buy 14 Boeing aircraft

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has signed a deal to buy 14 more new aircraft from US aircraft manufacturer Boeing.

The formal purchase agreement was signed at the capital's Hotel Intercontinental around 9pm on Thursday (April 30).

Biman Bangladesh Airlines Board Chairman Rumi A. Hossain said, "The airline is planning to launch new routes. The old aircraft will be replaced with new aircraft. This will further improve passenger service. We are already serving 25 percent of domestic passengers. More aircraft are needed to survive in the competition with foreign airlines."

Paul Riggi, Vice President of Boeing's Commercial Aviation Division, said, "The relationship between Bangladesh and the United States will reach new heights through the purchase of these 14 aircraft. We are proud to sign this agreement with Bangladesh. These aircraft will make air travel safer and more accessible for Bangladeshi passengers.'

Prime Minister's Foreign Affairs Advisor Humayun Kabir, who was present at the event, said, 'Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is giving utmost importance to making Biman Bangladesh Airlines a profitable organization. He is working on a very ambitious plan to develop the aviation sector.'