Bangladesh has received aircraft purchase proposals from European manufacturer Airbus and American manufacturer Boeing, with Airbus currently leading the race. Boeing’s proposal has seemingly faced setbacks due to reports that the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has intensified its scrutiny of Boeing and the 787 Dreamliner.
The European manufacturer Airbus is currently ahead in the consideration process. Civil Aviation Minister Faruk Khan has confirmed that Airbus has made a “strong offer,” making it a favourable option for Biman Bangladesh Airlines. Minister Khan stated that both Airbus and Boeing have provided good proposals, but they will choose what is best for Bangladesh and Biman.
Boeing’s proposal for the 787 Dreamliner has been affected by allegations of production flaws, which have prompted an investigation by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Minister Khan mentioned that Boeing’s offer is being reviewed, but the ongoing technical concerns are not being taken lightly. “There is no cause for concern at this moment, but we are cautiously monitoring the situation,” he said.
During a recent meeting with visiting UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, Minister Khan discussed the Airbus proposal. Airbus has offered an economically advantageous deal, which includes technical benefits. Initially, Biman Bangladesh plans to purchase 10 Airbus aircraft. Minister Khan noted, “We received a very good offer from Airbus, which we are currently evaluating.”
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French President Emmanuel Macron also encouraged Bangladesh to consider Airbus during his visit to Dhaka last year. Subsequently, a technical committee at Biman Bangladesh Airlines has been evaluating the proposals.
Despite the setbacks, Boeing has made an effort to regain ground. Senior executives from Boeing’s India and South Asia operations visited Dhaka recently, emphasizing their proposal’s benefits. Boeing aims to sell six wide-body aircraft, including four 787 Dreamliners and two 777 freighters, to Biman Bangladesh. During a press meeting, Boeing officials stressed their commitment to addressing the technical issues and ensuring aircraft safety.
Airbus has proposed selling two A350 models to Biman initially, with the potential for additional purchases. The A350 can carry 300-410 passengers depending on the variant. Meanwhile, Boeing is pushing for the sale of at least two 787 Dreamliners.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines currently operates a fleet of 21 aircraft, including Boeing 777s, 787 Dreamliners, 737s, and Dash-8 models. Historically, Biman’s fleet included Airbus A310 models, which were phased out due to age.
As Bangladesh evaluates these proposals, the decision will hinge on economic benefits, technical reliability, and overall value to the national carrier. The final decision is expected within the next one to one and a half months.
The civil aviation minister emphasized the importance of passenger safety and financial viability, saying that they will carefully consider the best option.