DHAKA, June 30, 2024 (BSS) - Biman Bangladesh Airlines has a plan to expand

its fleet to 47 aircraft by 2034, adding 32 new planes to enhance its
competitiveness in the regional aviation market, the carrier's new Managing
Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jahid Islam Bhuiyan, announced.

"Biman will have a fleet of 47 aircraft by 2034. In the meantime, six
aircraft from the existing 21 will be phased out. Therefore, we need to add
32 new aircraft over the next decade to achieve our expansion plan," he said.

Bhuiyan revealed the plan during his first media interaction since taking
office a month ago at the Biman's headquarters, Balaka, in the capital.

The new CEO explained that the airline will either purchase or lease the new
aircraft to meet its target and support the national carrier's route
expansion strategy over the next 10 years.

When asked about potential purchases from Airbus or Boeing, Bhuiyan indicated
that the airline's needs might require collaboration with the two giant
manufacturers.

"Discussions with Airbus have progressed, and a proposal from Boeing is also
on the table. Given our high demands, it is likely that a single company will
not suffice," he added.

Regarding Biman's financial performance, Bhuiyan projected earnings of Taka
1,200 crore from cargo alone in the current financial year.

"Overall, Biman will continue to see profits in the future, as it has over
the past few years," he said.

Addressing concerns about ticketing mismanagement by travel agents, Bhuiyan
emphasized Biman's commitment to resolving these issues.
 
"Biman Bangladesh Airlines aims to be 100 percent free from the problem of
unavailable tickets online despite empty seats on flights," he said.
 
The CEO reiterated that the national carrier is determined to eliminate the
syndicate responsible for making tickets unavailable online despite empty
seats.

"We want to resolve the ticketing issues completely to prevent future
complications. We have already warned the travel agencies," he noted.
Recently, Biman sent a letter to all Passenger Service Agents (PSAs),
expressing concern over agents undercutting or overpricing tickets through
their own web portals.

The state owned carrier urged all agents to adhere to the airline's policies,
warning that failure to comply could result in the termination of business
relationships.