Bangladesh to Acquire Aircraft From Both Boeing and Airbus to Expand Aviation Fleet

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Bangladesh will procure aircraft from both Boeing and Airbus to modernize its national carrier’s fleet, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid confirmed Thursday. Addressing reporters at the Foreign Ministry in Dhaka, the minister emphasized that the decision is driven by the necessity of enhancing the country’s civil aviation capabilities rather than external geopolitical pressure.

The move comes as the government balances the revitalization of a fragile national economy inherited from the previous administration with the practical requirements of infrastructure development. Shama Obaid asserted that while the government is exercising fiscal austerity, it remains committed to acquiring essential assets to elevate the aviation sector to a higher standard. She explicitly rejected claims that the government is favoring one nation over another in trade or investment, stating that all procurement decisions are based strictly on national interest.

The procurement strategy marks a shift toward a sustainable, mixed-fleet approach. Bangladesh initially signed a joint declaration in London in May 2023 to purchase passenger and cargo aircraft from Airbus. That agreement included provisions for long-term, low-interest financing through the UK Export Finance scheme. Subsequently, in July 2025, the government moved to purchase 25 aircraft from the U.S.-based manufacturer Boeing as part of a strategic bargaining process regarding reciprocal tariffs.

Bangladesh eyes Airbus fleet expansion to modernize national airline

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The shift toward a mixed fleet has gained momentum following discussions between government officials and European diplomats. On Wednesday, Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism Afroza Khan held a meeting with representatives from France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, and the European Union. During these discussions, officials emphasized the importance of building a robust and diverse fleet.

The conversation continued on Thursday at the Prime Minister’s Office, where the European delegation met with the Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Advisor, Humayun Kabir. European diplomats have maintained a keen interest in the Airbus deal, reflecting the broader collaborative efforts between Dhaka and its Western partners to upgrade the country’s aviation infrastructure.