Biman plans to convert two aircraft into dedicated freighters
Dhaka: Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat said the government is considering converting two aircraft from Biman Bangladesh Airlines' existing fleet into dedicated cargo planes to cater to rising air freight demand.
He made the disclosure during a meeting with a delegation led by William Prothero, managing director of international aviation company Highbury Group, at his office in the capital on November 10, according to a release from the ministry.
The minister said the move would help address the country's growing cargo transportation needs, boost Bangladesh's international air freight capacity, and generate additional revenue for the national flag carrier.
During the meeting, Prothero expressed his company's interest in investing in Bangladesh's civil aviation sector, particularly in aircraft leasing, financing, and conversion into dedicated freighters.
He also outlined Highbury Group's global experience in aircraft acquisition, financing, leasing, and asset management.
Millat said the government was open to examining concrete and viable investment proposals from the company.
He added that the government was pursuing various initiatives to modernize Biman and enhance its competitiveness in the international aviation market.
As part of these efforts, steps have been taken to expand the airline's fleet and improve its financial performance, the minister said.
Given the time required for the delivery of newly purchased aircraft, the government is also exploring leasing options to address capacity requirements in the meantime, he added.
Millat said aircraft flying hours, maintenance records, and other technical and operational aspects would be carefully evaluated before taking any decision on leasing.
The discussions also covered opportunities for foreign investment, aircraft financing and leasing, and ways to expand Bangladesh's air cargo handling capacity.
Both sides expressed hope that potential cooperation would open up new avenues for investment and contribute to the modernization of the country's civil aviation sector.
