By Staff Correspondent, Dhaka – Bangladesh’s state-run airline signed an agreement with US airplane manufacturer Boeing to purchase 11 more aircraft, apparently to grow and renew its fleet, the airline said on Thursday.
Senior officials from Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Boeing signed the agreement in New York on Wednesday (local time).
This is the airline’s second purchase this year, growing its order book to 25 aircraft (Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 737 MAX jets), according to a press statement from Boeing.
Under the latest deal, Biman ordered five 787-10 jets and six 737-8 jets.
“Today’s supplemental agreement is an important step in Biman’s ongoing fleet renewal and network expansion. This order responds to specific requirements in our fleet plan,” said Rumee A Hossain, chairman of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
“Our team’s working relationship with Boeing over the years has given us confidence in the delivery and support arrangements,” he added.
He said the national flag carrier remains committed to developing Biman’s network and capabilities in a manner that responds to the connectivity needs of the people of Bangladesh, the expatriate community, business, and tourism.
“This agreement is one part of a broader, carefully considered plan to strengthen the country’s international connectivity in the years ahead.”
Biman currently operates 787, 777, and 737 Next Generation airplanes across its international network, connecting Bangladesh with major hubs in the Middle East, South and Southeast Asia, and Europe, said the Boeing statement.
It added that the 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX families deliver 20–25 percent more fuel efficiency compared to the airplanes they replace, supporting the airline’s strategy to modernize its fleet and expand global connectivity.
“Biman’s follow-on order reflects its strategic approach to fleet renewal and capacity growth, and underscores the strength of our long-standing partnership,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.
“These additional 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX airplanes will deliver the efficiency, versatility, and reliability Biman needs to support Bangladesh’s growing role in global aviation.”
The addition of the 737-8 and 787-10 strengthens Biman’s established Boeing fleet, ensuring seamless commonality across operations. The 737-8 brings greater range to the airline’s single-aisle network, while the 787-10 adds higher capacity to complement Biman’s 787-9 and 787-8 airplanes.
The government, however, did not disclose the monetary value of the deals.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines has run a fleet of 19 aircraft, mostly from Boeing.
The government has been considering a separate proposal from Airbus for the acquisition of 10 aircraft from the European manufacturer.
