Bangladesh eyes Airbus purchase as European envoys pledge support for Biman's mixed-fleet plan

Dhaka: Bangladesh has expressed strong interest in purchasing Airbus aircraft for Biman Bangladesh Airlines as part of a plan to develop a sustainable mixed fleet, with European diplomats pledging their support for the initiative.

The issue was discussed during a courtesy meeting on July 15 between Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, and ambassadors and senior diplomats from France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, and the European Union at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism.

According to a press release from the ministry, the meeting focused on expanding cooperation between Bangladesh and the European Union, particularly in the development of the country's civil aviation sector.

During the discussions, the minister and the state minister highlighted the government's interest in procuring Airbus aircraft for Biman Bangladesh Airlines to establish a sustainable mixed fleet while safeguarding Bangladesh's national interests.

In response, the representatives of France, the UK, Spain, Germany, and the European Union reaffirmed their commitment to extending the necessary cooperation regarding the proposed acquisition.

The meeting also reaffirmed the shared commitment of Bangladesh and the European Union and its member states to further strengthen their longstanding partnership and expand cooperation across multiple sectors, including civil aviation.