Biman Bangladesh Airlines is taking steps to rent at least two planes shortly, addressing a significant lack in its fleet due to increasing passenger needs. Managing Director Shafiqur Rahman mentioned that the airline should not anticipate receiving new aircraft from manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing before 2031. As a result, leasing has become the only viable option to bridge the gap and maintain service levels. The airline’s procurement committee is evaluating offers from major aircraft lessors while also considering proposals from Airbus and Boeing, though delivery timelines extend beyond six years. In the meantime, leasing two planes will enable Biman to sustain operations and manage flight schedules without long-term aircraft waiting periods. The aircraft shortage is not only affecting existing routes but also limiting Biman’s ability to launch new ones. Rahman confirmed that destinations under consideration cannot yet be added due to a lack of available planes. The leased aircraft will help restore route expansion and fill capacity gaps imposed by the current fleet imbalance. In addition to leasing, Biman’s procurement committee continues to evaluate plans to purchase both wide- and narrow-body aircraft, with the aim of strengthening its fleet over the longer term. However, until orders placed become accessible post-2031, leasing serves as a practical interim solution. The airline is also making important operational improvements. Ground handling services have been enhanced at the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, and Biman is preparing to launch international flights from Cox’s Bazar Airport. Internally, the management has taken steps to address mismanagement and corruption, aiming to improve overall service quality and efficiency. A difficult decision has been made to suspend flights on the Dhaka–Narita route from July 1 due to financial non-viability under the current conditions. This move reflects the airline’s need to reallocate limited capacity to more sustainable routes until fleet size can be increased. By leasing aircraft, boosting ground infrastructure, and refining route strategies, Biman aims to strengthen its operational stability and service offerings. While giveaways in fuel prices and global delivery delays have caused challenges, the shift toward leasing ensures that passenger demand can be met in the short term. Long-term fleet renewal plans remain on track, with hopes to receive newly purchased aircraft after 2031.
