Why Biman Bangladesh Airlines Picked Boeing for 14-Jet Fleet Order?

January 1, 2026 at 06:00 PM•2 min read

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has approved the in-principle purchase of 14 Boeing jets, including 787-10 Dreamliners and 737-8 MAX, to modernize its national flag carrier fleet.

Key Points

114 aircraft order includes eight Boeing 787-10s, two 787-9s, and four 737-8 MAX jets.
2The decision rules out rival Airbus and is subject to final price negotiations by the Biman board of directors.
3The purchase supports Biman's fleet modernization and efforts to reduce the trade deficit with the United States.
4The new wide-body 787 Dreamliners will strengthen Biman's long-haul international connectivity and cargo capacity.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has chosen Boeing for a major fleet expansion. The national flag carrier fleet expansion involves 14 new aircraft. This move is key to modernizing its fleet and boosting capacity. The decision was made at the airline's annual general meeting on Tuesday.

This decision ruled out a competing proposal. The rival European manufacturer Airbus had actively lobbied for the deal. Biman's board of directors gave principal approval for the purchase. This approval is subject to final price negotiations and terms. It follows recommendations from Biman's techno-finance committee.

Key Details of the Boeing 14 Aircraft Deal

The Boeing 14 aircraft deal includes a mix of jets. The order comprises ten wide-body Dreamliners. Specifically, it includes eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners and two 787-9 Dreamliners. These wide-body jets are suited for long-haul international routes.

Four narrow-body jets are also part of the purchase. This includes four Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft. These jets will serve regional and domestic services. The new aircraft will significantly expand Biman's operational capacity.

Strategic and Trade Context

This fleet expansion is part of a larger strategy. The goal is to enhance the country's aviation capacity. It also aims to strengthen international connectivity and meet rising demand. The decision aligns with a government commitment. The interim government had pledged to buy aircraft from Boeing. This was an effort to help reduce trade deficit with the United States.

Political and Fleet Considerations

The choice for the US manufacturer follows political debate. The previous government had favored purchasing Airbus aircraft. European diplomats actively sought to promote the Airbus proposal. Biman's current fleet is already heavily Boeing-centric. This new acquisition further consolidates the manufacturer's dominance.

Impact and Phased Delivery

The induction of new jets will allow Biman to expand operations. This includes both state-run and commercial sectors. The 787-10 Dreamliners purchase is a key step for long-haul growth. It will allow Biman to reach new markets in Europe and the Middle East.

Final contract signing will occur after all financial procedures are complete. The delivery of the new aircraft will then take place in phases. This marks a significant milestone in Biman's fleet modernization efforts. For more commercial aviation news, visit the flying.flights website.