Dhaka-Tokyo flights to resume in June

State Minister for Civil Aviation M Rashiduzzaman Millat announced on Wednesday that Biman Bangladesh Airlines will resume Dhaka–Tokyo flights from June, following a meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, reports the Financial Express. 

The Narita–Dhaka route, which had previously been in operation, was shut down during the interim government period despite being considered a profitable route, he said.

Millat said a recent review found that the reasons behind the suspension no longer exist, inducing the government to take steps to restart the service. Initially, flights will begin operating from June, with plans to increase the frequency in the future depending on demand and profitability.

Return flights for Hajj pilgrims are expected to begin on 30 May. He said the entire Hajj operation this season is being operated through the national flag carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

The state minister also said that, as part of plans to expand the airline’s fleet, the government has already taken steps to add new aircraft. There are plans to purchase 14 new aircraft, which may be acquired from the US manufacturer Boeing. The agreement related to this is expected to be finalised by 30 April.

He added that discussions are also ongoing with the European manufacturer Airbus to develop a mixed fleet in the future. In addition, initiatives have been taken to increase the fleet in the short term by leasing new aircraft within the next two to three months.