Mohammad Abu Hanif: Biman Bangladesh Airlines has signed a landmark agreement with US aerospace giant Boeing to procure 14 new aircraft, marking one of the most significant fleet expansion initiatives in the national carrier’s history and a major step toward strengthening Bangladesh’s aviation sector.The agreement was formalised at a ceremony held at Hotel InterContinental in the capital on Friday evening. Under the deal, Biman will acquire eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, and four Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft.Biman Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kaizer Sohel Ahmed signed the agreement on behalf of the airline, while Boeing Vice President Paul Righi represented the manufacturer.At the Event State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat, Prime Minister’s Adviser M Humayun Kabir, Biman Board Chairman Rumee A. Hossain, and US Ambassador Brent T. Christensen addressed the audience, underscoring the strategic and economic importance of the deal.Speaking at the event, the state minister described the agreement as more than a commercial transaction. “This is not only a purchase agreement between Biman and Boeing; it represents a strong and growing partnership between Bangladesh and the United States,” he said.Officials noted that the new aircraft will play a critical role in modernising Biman’s ageing fleet, improving fuel efficiency, and expanding both passenger and cargo capacity over the coming decade.The wide-body Dreamliners are expected to significantly enhance long-haul connectivity, particularly with destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Meanwhile, the narrow-body Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft will strengthen regional routes and improve operational flexibility.The deal comes at a pivotal moment as Bangladesh prepares to operationalise the third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, a development widely seen as a catalyst for future passenger growth and increased international connectivity.Industry insiders say the agreement concludes more than three years of intense competition between Boeing and European rival Airbus for Biman’s next major fleet acquisition.With this move, Biman Bangladesh Airlines aims to position itself as a more competitive carrier in the global aviation market while supporting the country’s broader economic and connectivity ambitions.