Biman Bangladesh Airlines plans to lease 10 aircraft by 2027 to expand its international routes and increase passenger capacity. State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat said the initiative aims to address the airline’s short-term capacity gap until 14 new Boeing aircraft are added to the fleet from 2031. Initially, three aircraft will be leased, with the number potentially increasing based on operational needs and route expansion strategies.

The government has emphasized transparency in the leasing process and has begun selecting an international consultant to oversee it. Around 40 applications have been received, and one qualified firm will be chosen. The leasing plan is separate from Biman’s $3.7 billion Boeing purchase agreement. As part of the initiative, Biman has invited proposals for a six-year dry lease of three Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, expected to join the fleet in early 2027.

The expansion comes amid rapid growth in Bangladesh’s aviation sector, with private airlines like US-Bangla, Air Astra, and Novoair also pursuing fleet and route expansions to capture a larger share of the international passenger market.