Staff Reporter:
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat yesterday said the government plans to convert two aircraft in Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ existing fleet into dedicated freighters to meet growing air cargo demand.
He disclosed the plan when a delegation led by William Prothero, managing director of international aviation company Highbury Group, paid a courtesy call on him at his ministry office at the Bangladesh Secretariat, said a press release.
The minister said converting the two aircraft for exclusive cargo operations would help meet the country’s substantial cargo demand, expand Bangladesh’s international cargo transport capacity and increase Biman’s revenue.
During the meeting, Prothero expressed interest in investing in the development and expansion of Bangladesh’s civil aviation sector, including aircraft leasing and conversion into dedicated freighters.
He highlighted his company’s extensive experience in global investment and asset management involving aircraft acquisition, financing and leasing.
Millath assured the delegation that the government would seriously consider any specific and feasible investment proposal from Highbury Group.
The minister said the government was working to modernise Biman and strengthen its position in the international aviation industry.
Initiatives have already been taken to expand the national flag carrier’s fleet to make it a stronger and more profitable airline, he continued.
“Considering the delivery timelines for new aircraft, the government is also examining aircraft leasing options to meet demand in the intervening period,” the minister said, adding that aircraft flying hours, maintenance histories and other key technical and operational indicators would be thoroughly assessed before leasing decisions are made.
The meeting also discussed prospects for international investment, aircraft financing and leasing, and expansion of Bangladesh’s cargo transport capacity.
Both sides expressed optimism that such cooperation could create new opportunities for the modernisation and growth of the country’s civil aviation sector.
