Govt reviews fleet expansion plan for Biman

The government has reviewed a long-term plan to expand the fleet of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, aiming to increase the number of aircraft to 47 by the 2034–35 fiscal year.

The discussion took place at a high-level meeting held on Wednesday at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism at the Bangladesh Secretariat in Dhaka, according to a press release from the ministry.

The meeting focused on a proposed roadmap for fleet expansion, including the possible acquisition of aircraft from Boeing.

Officials also reviewed initiatives taken during previous administrations as part of a broader assessment of the national carrier’s growth strategy.

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam said each aircraft addition must be backed by route-based revenue analysis to ensure financial sustainability.

“Each addition must be grounded in route-based revenue analysis to ensure financial sustainability,” she said, stressing the need for a clear-eyed approach.

“A coordinated and realistic plan based on revenue and operational efficiency is essential to make Biman more profitable and passenger-friendly,” she added.

State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat stressed the need to press ahead with necessary procedures for adding Boeing aircraft to the fleet, highlighting the importance of timely procurement and delivery.

He also directed officials to take steps to resume flights on the Dhaka–Narita route, aiming to strengthen international connectivity.

Senior officials, including Civil Aviation Secretary Fahmida Akhtar and the managing director of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, were present at the meeting, along with representatives from relevant agencies.

Authorities say the fleet expansion plan forms part of a broader effort to modernise the national airline and enhance its competitiveness in regional and global markets.