Biman Bangladesh to add 14 new Boeing aircraft to its fleet

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has taken a policy decision to purchase 14 new aircraft as part of its fleet expansion and modernisation plan, opting for US manufacturer Boeing instead of Airbus.

The decision was taken at the airline’s annual general meeting held on Tuesday, chaired by Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser and Biman board chairman Sheikh Bashir Uddin.

Biman’s General Manager Public Relations, Bosra Islam, said the board has given policy approval for the purchase of 14 Boeing aircraft. However, the final decision will be made following discussions with Boeing on pricing and other terms, in line with recommendations from the techno-finance committee.

The approved aircraft include eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and four Boeing 737-8 Max aircraft.

Officials concerned said the interim government had earlier pledged to purchase aircraft from Boeing as part of efforts to reduce the trade deficit with the United States. After further evaluation, Biman authorities reached this decision.

Board members said the initiative aims to enhance the country’s aviation capacity, strengthen international connectivity and meet future passenger and cargo demand. Once added to the fleet, the aircraft will create opportunities to expand both state-run and commercial operations.

Sources said a final agreement with Boeing will be signed after completing necessary approvals and financial procedures. The aircraft will then be delivered to Bangladesh in phases.

Officials noted that the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a wide-body aircraft used for long-haul international flights, while the Boeing 737-8 Max is a narrow-body aircraft suitable for regional and domestic routes.

Bosra Islam said the decision marks an important milestone in Biman’s fleet modernisation. It will enhance Bangladesh’s international air connectivity and significantly increase passenger and cargo carrying capacity, while also strengthening aviation cooperation between Bangladesh and the United States.