Biman to Sign Deal for Additional Boeing Aircraft Amid Ongoing Airbus Talks

Biman Bangladesh Airlines is on the cusp of signing a deal for 11 additional Boeing aircraft, scheduled to be inked in New York tomorrow. The agreement will bring the country's national flag carrier's fleet count to 54 planes, with 19 currently in service.

The development comes as France steps up its pitch for 10 Airbus planes for Biman, with French Ambassador Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet reiterating France's call for a fair and level playing field for European companies competing in Bangladesh. He linked the Airbus proposal to Bangladesh's broader engagement with Europe, stating that a long-term partnership with the region was 'why Airbus matters'.

Biman is currently negotiating with Airbus for 10 planes, including four A350-900s and six A321neos, with the deal expected to be signed in the first week of October. The negotiations have been ongoing for some time, with Séré-Charlet noting that they 'could take time' and should be completed carefully.

The proposed Airbus purchase has received backing from European countries, including a joint promotion by envoys from France, Germany, the UK, and the EU last year. The ambassador also highlighted the importance of expanding trade beyond garments into pharmaceuticals and technology, with bilateral trade between Bangladesh and France exceeding 4.5 billion euros.