The Bangladesh government is set to finalize a purchase agreement with France’s Airbus for ten aircraft by August 31, 2026, according to officials. The decision reportedly follows pressure from the European Union (EU). State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat confirmed the plan, saying details on pricing and conditions will be disclosed after signing. The move will make Biman Bangladesh Airlines a mixed-fleet carrier for the first time, operating both Boeing and Airbus aircraft.

Civil Aviation Minister Afroza Khanom Rita said the government aims to modernize Biman’s fleet with 14 Boeing and 10 Airbus aircraft, along with five leased planes this year. Ministry sources indicated that the EU raised transparency concerns over the earlier Boeing deal and linked the Airbus purchase to broader trade and diplomatic interests, as nearly half of Bangladesh’s exports go to Europe. The Airbus agreement will follow the same evaluation process used for Boeing, with four A350-900 wide-body jets and six narrow-body aircraft to be added gradually.

Aviation experts cautioned that expanding the fleet without maximizing current capacity could create financial pressure, though the government views the deal as part of its long-term plan to modernize Biman and strengthen ties with the EU.