Airbus has expressed a strong interest in supporting a ‘mixed fleet’ strategy for Biman Bangladesh Airlines during a high-level meeting with officials from Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism on Tuesday.
The discussion took place at the Secretariat in Dhaka, where Airbus Vice President Edward Delahaye met Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam and State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat.
According to officials present, Airbus conveyed its willingness to collaborate closely with Bangladesh in developing a diversified aircraft fleet to enhance operational flexibility and route optimisation.
A ‘mixed fleet’ typically includes aircraft from multiple manufacturers. The Airbus delegation highlighted that such a structure could help Biman improve efficiency across short, medium, and long-haul routes while reducing dependency on a single supplier.
In response, the minister and state minister expressed optimism about working more closely with Airbus in future fleet expansion plans.
They reiterated the government’s intent to strengthen the national carrier’s capacity and competitiveness through strategic partnerships.
Also present at the meeting were Civil Aviation Secretary Fahmida Akhter and Biman Managing Director Kaizer Sohail Ahmed.
Industry observers say the move toward a mixed fleet could mark a shift in Bangladesh’s aviation strategy, as Biman has traditionally relied heavily on Boeing aircraft for its operations. If pursued, the initiative may open the door for Airbus to secure its first major foothold in Bangladesh’s commercial aviation sector.
The current Biman fleet comprises 19 aircraft, dominated by Boeing jets. On 30 April, Biman signed a deal with Boeing to purchase 14 more jets.
