Bangladesh is moving ahead with plans to purchase 14 aircraft from Boeing as part of a broader strategy to expand and modernize the fleet of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
The decision was confirmed by State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat following a high-level meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. Officials indicated that a formal agreement with Boeing is expected to be signed in April.
The aircraft order is aimed at addressing a growing capacity shortfall at Biman Bangladesh Airlines, which currently operates around 19 aircraft on international routes, well below the estimated requirement of 30 to 35 aircraft needed to meet rising passenger demand and support planned network expansion. The total value of the deal is estimated at approximately 350 billion taka (around $2.8 billion).
Boeing Order Details (Approved Plan)
The planned order of 14 aircraft from Boeing is already defined at board level and is quite specific:
- 8 × Boeing 787-10
- 2 × Boeing 787-9
- 4 × Boeing 737-8 Max
Alongside the Boeing purchase, the government is also in discussions with Airbus to potentially develop a mixed fleet strategy in the future. In the short term, authorities are exploring leasing options to quickly add capacity, with additional aircraft expected to enter service within two to three months.
The move marks a shift in procurement policy. An earlier interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus had prioritized finalizing a Boeing deal, reversing a previous decision by the government of Sheikh Hasina, which had favored Airbus aircraft.
In parallel with fleet expansion, Bangladesh is also working to restore key international connectivity. The government confirmed plans to resume direct flights to Tokyo in June, a route that had been suspended during the previous interim administration.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines Current Fleet
Biman Bangladesh Airlines currently operates ~19–21 aircraft in 2026, with a strong Boeing mix.
- 4 × Boeing 777-300ER (long-haul flagship)
- 4 × Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
- 2 × Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
- 4 × Boeing 737-800
- 5 × Dash 8 Q400 (domestic/regional)
Longer term, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism is targeting significant growth in Biman’s fleet. Officials outlined plans to increase the number of aircraft to 47 by the 2034–35 fiscal year, positioning the airline to better compete in regional and long-haul markets.
The expansion reflects a broader effort to strengthen Bangladesh’s aviation sector as demand for international travel continues to grow. By investing in new aircraft and improving connectivity, the government aims to enhance the competitiveness of its national carrier while supporting economic development and tourism growth.
There is no finalized full-year figure yet for Boeing 787 sales in 2026, but available data provides a clear snapshot of current performance. The 787 has recorded roughly 48 net orders year to date, reflecting continued demand from airlines expanding long-haul fleets. In the first quarter of 2026, Boeing delivered 15 Dreamliners, averaging about five aircraft per month. While these figures remain subject to change as additional deals are announced, industry expectations suggest total 787 deliveries for the full year could reach between 70 and 100 aircraft, broadly in line with recent production ramp-up trends. Final totals, however, will depend on order timing, supply chain stability, and delivery schedules, meaning the complete 2026 picture will only be confirmed at year-end.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aa.com.tr
