Biman Bangladesh Airlines has announced an unaudited profit of Tk 937 crore in the 2024–25 fiscal year, claiming it to be the highest in its 55-year history.
The announcement came through a press release on Monday, issued by Biman’s General Manager (Public Relations) ABM Roushan Kabir. The carrier attributed the achievement to efficient resource management, strategic planning and improved passenger services.
However, Padma Oil Company, the sole supplier of jet fuel in the country and a subsidiary of Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), said Biman still owes about Tk 2,100 crore in unpaid fuel bills. A senior BPC official said the dues had never fallen below Tk 2,000 crore as of June, adding that only a small portion had been cleared.
The apparent contrast has raised questions about the airline’s financial situation. Analysts pointed out that while Biman claims record revenue and profit, the burden of large unpaid dues clouds the credibility of its financial management.
According to the press release, Biman generated Tk 11,631 crore in revenue in 2024–25, significantly higher than the previous year. Since its inception in 1972 with an annual income of only Tk 1.9 crore, the airline has recorded profit in 26 years.
Biman currently operates a fleet of 21 aircraft, including 19 owned jets with Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliners. The carrier said it is now capable of carrying out all major maintenance checks domestically, helping reduce costs and ensure safety.
The airline also reported improvements in passenger services, carrying 3.4 million travellers and nearly 44,000 tonnes of cargo in the last fiscal year. Its cabin factor rose to 82 percent, with January 2025 marking the highest-ever ticket sales in its history.
Biman further claimed progress in faster baggage delivery, enhanced in-flight service, and modernised airport processes, while maintaining a strong international safety record.
Still, with Padma Oil’s dues unsettled, analysts stressed that Biman’s profitability would remain under scrutiny, with doubts persisting about the sustainability of its financial performance.