Representational image. | AFP file photo
European aerospace giant Airbus on Tuesday expressed strong interest in supporting the formation of a mixed fleet for Biman Bangladesh Airlines, signalling a renewed push to expand its footprint in Bangladesh’s aviation sector.
The interest was conveyed when Airbus vice-president Edward Delahaye paid a courtesy call on civil aviation and tourism minister Afroza Khanam at the Secretariat, said a ministry’s press release.
State minister for civil aviation and tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat, ministry secretary Fahmida Akhter, and Biman managing director Kaizer Sohel Ahmed were also present at the meeting.
During the discussion, Airbus formally expressed its interest in supporting Biman’s future fleet development through the introduction of a mixed fleet structure, officials said.
The minister and state minister welcomed the proposal and expressed their commitment to working closely with Airbus in exploring future fleet expansion and modernization opportunities for the national carrier.
The meeting also discussed broader cooperation in Bangladesh’s civil aviation sector as the government moves ahead with long-term plans to strengthen air connectivity and modernize aviation infrastructure.
Meanwhile on April 30, national flag carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines Limited signed an agreement with the Boeing Company to acquire 14 aircraft, including 10 wide-body 787 Dreamliners and four narrow-body 737 MAX.