US-Bangla Airlines has revealed a major fleet expansion initiative by securing 21 new Boeing aircraft valued at around $1.5 billion. This move is deemed as a significant milestone in the aviation history of the country. The announcement was made during the “Beyond with Boeing” event held at Sheraton Dhaka.
The new aircraft fleet will consist of 15 Boeing 737-8 and six Boeing 737-800 planes, all set to be delivered by the end of 2027. The private airline stated that this fleet expansion will allow them to introduce services to various new destinations such as Bengaluru and Hyderabad in India, Colombo in Sri Lanka, Kathmandu in Nepal, Kunming, Shenzhen, and Beijing in China, Johor Bahru and Penang in Malaysia, as well as destinations in South Korea, Japan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Madinah, and Dammam in Saudi Arabia, and Salalah in Oman.
Mohammad Abdullah Al Mamun, managing director of US-Bangla Group and US-Bangla Airlines, emphasized that this investment signifies more than just fleet expansion. It demonstrates their strategic vision to evolve US-Bangla into a comprehensive global aviation entity. The focus will be on investing in various areas such as aircraft, personnel, technology, training, maintenance, cargo, catering, and infrastructure to bolster sustainable growth in Bangladesh’s aviation industry.
US Ambassador Brent T Christensen hailed the announcement as a monumental achievement, labeling Boeing Bangladesh’s “best business case.” He highlighted the significance of investing in people, particularly US-Bangla’s plan to send about 200 Bangladeshi pilots to the US for advanced training, positioning it as an investment in the future generation of aviation professionals.
The US ambassador also underscored the deepening economic ties between the US and Bangladesh, noting the mutual benefits of collaboration. He emphasized that American companies bring innovation, technology, quality products, and enduring partnerships, while Bangladeshi firms contribute entrepreneurial vigor, determination, and growth-oriented vision.
Humaiun Kobir, Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, acknowledged the challenges confronting the aviation sector and disclosed government plans to provide financial backing and address tax-related concerns. Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, outlined Bangladesh’s aspiration to accommodate 24 million passengers annually with the launch of the third terminal at Dhaka airport.
Air Vice Marshal Md Mostafa Mahmood Siddiq, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, and Paul Righi, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Eurasia, India, and South Asia at Boeing, also delivered remarks at the event.
