B Mirror Report : Biman Bangladesh Airlines has decided in principle to purchase 14 aircraft from US-based manufacturer Boeing, opting out of rival Airbus, as part of a major fleet expansion and modernisation plan.

The decision was taken at the airline’s Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday, chaired by Aviation and Tourism Adviser Sheikh Bashir Uddin, who also serves as Chairman of Biman’s Board of Directors.

During the meeting, the Board of Directors principally approved the procurement of 14 Boeing aircraft, subject to price negotiations and other terms in line with recommendations of Biman’s techno-finance committee, Biman General Manager (Public Relations) Bosra Islam told BSS.

The approved order includes eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and four Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft.

Officials said the interim government had earlier pledged to purchase aircraft from Boeing as part of efforts to reduce the trade deficit with the United States. Following further evaluation and scrutiny, Biman finalised the decision.

Board members noted that the move was taken to enhance the country’s aviation capacity, strengthen international connectivity and meet growing future passenger and cargo demand. The induction of the new aircraft is expected to create opportunities to expand operations in both state and commercial sectors.

After completing required approvals and financial procedures, the final contract will be signed with Boeing, followed by phased delivery of the aircraft, sources said.

Earlier, European aircraft manufacturer Airbus had actively sought the deal, with ambassadors from the European Union and several countries engaging in diplomatic efforts to promote Airbus aircraft to Biman. However, those efforts did not succeed.

Officials explained that the Boeing 787 Dreamliners are wide-body aircraft designed for long-haul international routes, while the Boeing 737-8 is a narrow-body aircraft typically used for regional and domestic operations.

The addition of the new aircraft is expected to significantly expand Biman’s operational capacity and route network. The decision marks a major step in fleet modernisation and is expected to strengthen aviation ties between Bangladesh and the United States, while supporting both passenger and cargo services as Bangladesh seeks to expand its international air connectivity, Bosra Islam added.