B Mirror Report: Biman Bangladesh Airlines Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Dr Md Shafiqur Rahman has rejected claims that the decision to procure 14 Boeing aircraft was politically driven, saying the move was taken purely on operational requirements and commercial considerations.

In an exclusive interview with BSS today, Dr Rahman said the aircraft acquisition decision was based on comprehensive evaluations, including fleet compatibility, maintenance and technical support, financing options, delivery timelines and long-term operational efficiency.

He said policy-level approval for the procurement was given by the Biman Board of Directors at the airline’s Annual General Meeting held on December 30, which was chaired by the Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser, who is also the board chairman.

According to the Biman chief, the approval includes the purchase of eight Boeing 787-10 aircraft, two Boeing 787-9 aircraft and four Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft, subject to final price negotiations and financing arrangements.

Highlighting the airline’s future growth plan, Dr Rahman said Biman’s expansion strategy prioritises gradual network development in line with market demand and operational capability, with special emphasis on strengthening international operations and increasing capacity on routes with strong diaspora and business demand.

He said the Middle East remains a key focus area for fleet expansion, considering remittance inflows, transit passengers and cargo movement. New routes, he added, will be launched in phases following detailed commercial viability studies and careful fleet planning.

Responding to a question on his achievements, Dr Rahman said restoring financial discipline and operational stability amid global challenges in the aviation sector stands out as one of the major accomplishments of his tenure. He said sustained profitability, uninterrupted operations, improved aircraft utilisation and stronger internal controls reflect collective efforts across the airline, stressing that stability and reliability are as important as expansion for a national flag carrier.

Addressing past criticism over higher fares and low passenger loads, he said earlier difficulties were partly caused by syndicate practices in ticket sales that led to artificial price increases and reduced transparency. He noted that Biman has since ensured transparent online ticketing, strengthened revenue management and rationalised flight frequencies.

Dr Rahman said Biman’s recent record profits resulted from long-term initiatives, including strict cost control, enhanced fleet utilisation, route optimisation and stronger revenue management, alongside support from the Board of Directors and the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. He added that fuel efficiency improvements, renegotiation of service contracts, reduction of avoidable operational losses and improved financial oversight also played key roles, while demand recovery in major international markets supported the turnaround.

On jet fuel liabilities, he said the outstanding dues are a legacy issue accumulated over many years and that Biman is following a structured repayment plan without disrupting daily operations. The airline is currently repaying Tk 25 crore per month while purchasing fuel on a cash basis, he added.

Regarding the resumption of direct Dhaka–Karachi flights, Dr Rahman said nonstop services would significantly reduce both travel time and cost for passengers by eliminating lengthy transits through hubs such as Dubai, Doha and Sharjah. He said the direct flight would cut journey time from up to 13 hours or more to around four to four-and-a-half hours.

Airline officials said the revived Dhaka–Karachi route will initially operate on a trial basis from January 29 to March 30 as part of a “strategic observation” period. During this time, passenger demand, load factors and commercial performance will be evaluated before any decision on permanent operation or increased frequency.

Biman suspended the Dhaka–Karachi service in 2012 due to prolonged losses and low passenger numbers, with officials noting that the cautious resumption reflects lessons learned from past experience.