Minister urges collective efforts to transform Biman
Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita on Monday called for joint efforts to make Biman Bangladesh Airlines a profitable, modern and passenger friendly airline, stressing improved service, transparency and accountability.
The minister made the call while addressing an exchange meeting with Biman officials and employees at the national carrier’s headquarters at Balaka Bhaban in Kurmitola, reports BSS.
State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat attended the programme as special guest.
Addressing the officials, the minister said employees must treat passengers with due respect as their salaries are derived from passengers’ payments.
She emphasised performance-based promotion, filling vacant posts and improving salaries and benefits.
The meeting discussed short-and long-term plans for Biman’s development, including expansion of fleet, enhancement of passenger services, strengthening domestic-international connectivity and improving facilities for elderly and special-needs passengers.
The minister also directed strict enforcement of zero tolerance against baggage theft, ensuring transparency in ticket sales and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and professionalism.
Highlighting the importance of Hajj operations, she instructed authorities to ensure smooth, safe and timely services with passenger satisfaction as the top priority.
The state minister Millat said the government aims to develop Biman into a model institution and assured continued support from the ministry.
He added that new aircraft may be inducted by 2032 subject to agreements and directed submission of a comprehensive operational plan for 2026-2031.
Earlier, the minister and state minister visited Biman headquarters, where Managing Director and CEO Dr Humaira Sultana briefed them on route network, financial performance, fleet expansion and overall operations.
The minister praised Biman’s skilled workforce and expressed optimism that the airline could be transformed into a world-class carrier.
Following the meeting, the ministers inspected the Biman Flight Catering Centre (BFCC) and reviewed hygiene standards.
Senior officials of the ministry and Biman were present.
