Minister of State for External Affairs Humayun Kabir said, "Boeing was bought in an open environment through a signing ceremony." We bought Boeing according to our needs.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir has categorically dismissed allegations of external pressure regarding the procurement of Boeing aircraft, asserting that the decision was driven solely by national requirements and the strategic expansion of Biman Bangladesh Airlines. Addressing a press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, the state minister emphasized that the acquisition process was conducted with full transparency.
The state minister underscored that the procurement was finalized in an open environment, noting that the signing ceremony was attended by four United States cabinet ministers under the direction of the White House. He reiterated that the government’s fleet modernization strategy is based strictly on passenger demand and the operational requirements of the national flag carrier to establish Bangladesh as a viable aviation hub.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines recently entered into an agreement to purchase 11 additional aircraft from the United States-based Boeing Company. This follows a previous agreement signed in April for 14 aircraft, valued at approximately 3.7 billion US dollars. While the financial details of the latest deal remain undisclosed, the state minister maintained that the expansion is essential for the airline to remain competitive in the 21st century.
Highlighting the necessity of a mixed fleet, Humayun Kabir noted that Bangladesh has historically relied on Boeing’s heavy aircraft and will continue to evaluate its needs for further acquisitions. He dismissed claims of any hidden agendas, insisting that the expansion is a calculated move to enhance service quality and accommodate the growing demand for international air travel.
Regarding the long-standing issue of resuming direct flights between Dhaka and New York, the state minister confirmed that a technical assessment is currently underway. The route, which was previously suspended due to technical and regulatory constraints, remains a priority for the government as it reviews the necessary safety and operational standards required to restore the connection.
