First Boeing jet for Biman due in October 2031; deal likely this month

Dhaka: The first Boeing aircraft ordered by Biman Bangladesh Airlines is scheduled for delivery in October 2031, with the full fleet expected to be handed over by November 2035, according to officials of the national flag carrier.

An agreement between Biman and US aircraft manufacturer Boeing is likely to be signed within this month, following recent policy-level approval by the Biman board to procure 14 aircraft from the company.

Confirming the timeline, Biman spokesperson Boshra Islam said the delivery of the first aircraft would begin in October 2031, while the remaining planes would be delivered in phases, concluding by November 2035.

She said discussions with Boeing are currently underway to finalize contractual and procedural matters. “Following the board’s approval, talks are ongoing regarding the signing of the agreement and completion of the necessary formalities,” she added.

Biman currently operates a fleet of 19 aircraft, 14 of which are manufactured by Boeing. Under the newly approved proposal, the aircraft maker has offered to supply two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, eight Boeing 787-10s, and four Boeing 737-8 aircraft.

However, aviation experts and industry insiders note that board approval alone does not automatically translate into a confirmed aircraft purchase, as several key financial and procedural steps remain.

They point out that the approval marks only the initial stage of a lengthy acquisition process. Typically, aircraft purchases require a down payment of around 10 percent of the total cost, which is usually arranged through bank financing. The order becomes firm only after the down payment is made and the purchase agreement is formally signed.

On financing, Boshra Islam said Biman will issue a request for proposal (RFP) to secure bank loans and will proceed with the lender offering the most competitive interest rate.

K