Biman gets revised 10-jet Airbus offer
European aircraft manufacturer Airbus has submitted a scaled-down proposal to Biman Bangladesh Airlines, reducing its earlier offer from 14 to 10 aircraft following the national carrier’s recent multibillion-dollar order with competitor Boeing.
According to Airbus and Biman sources, the updated proposal, recently placed before Biman’s techno-finance committee, includes four A350-900 wide-body aircraft and six A321neo narrow-body jets.
The move comes shortly after Biman signed a $3.7 billion deal with Boeing on 30 April to acquire 14 aircraft eight Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and four Boeing 737 MAX jets.
Industry insiders said Airbus trimmed its offer as part of a strategic effort to stay involved in Bangladesh’s long-term aviation expansion plans.
Its earlier proposal reportedly included 10 A350 wide-body jets and four A320neo aircraft.
An Airbus source said the company has maintained engagement with Biman even after the Boeing agreement and noted a “positive approach” from the Bangladesh government following submission of the revised offer.
On 5 May, Airbus Vice President Edward Delahaye met Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroz Khanam, alongside senior government officials and Biman Managing Director Kaiser Sohel Ahmed.
During the meeting, Airbus expressed interest in supporting Biman’s transition to a mixed fleet structure, while government representatives indicated openness to future collaboration.
Airbus’ South Asia office declined to comment on ongoing discussions, while Biman spokesperson Boshra Islam said the airline routinely receives proposals from aircraft manufacturers and that such discussions do not necessarily indicate a purchase decision.
The renewed Airbus bid comes as the government reviews a long-term plan to expand Biman’s fleet to 47 aircraft by FY2034-35 to strengthen the airline and develop Bangladesh as a regional aviation and cargo hub.
Airbus sources said deliveries could begin by 2033 if Biman opts for a mixed fleet.
Boeing, meanwhile, is expected to deliver the newly ordered 14 aircraft between 2031 and 2035. Biman currently operates 19 aircraft, including 14 Boeing-made planes.
The latest developments reflect the long-running rivalry between Airbus and Boeing over Biman’s future fleet strategy.
Although Airbus has yet to secure an order from the airline, discussions remain active.
European diplomats from France, the UK and Germany have also encouraged Bangladesh to consider Airbus aircraft to ensure a balanced procurement approach.
As deliveries of new aircraft will take years, the government is also considering short-term solutions to ease capacity shortages, including leasing aircraft — preferably through dry lease arrangements over the next five years.
