Bangladesh to Order 25 Boeing Jets to Expand Biman and Ease U.S. Trade Tensions

In a strategic move aimed at boosting U.S.-Bangladesh trade relations and expanding its national airline, Bangladesh has announced plans to order 25 Boeing aircraft—nearly doubling its initial intention to purchase 14 jets, specific models not disclosed. The deal, pending final government approval, is seen as part of a broader economic strategy to narrow the trade deficit with the United States and counter potential export tariffs.

The new aircraft will be delivered to Biman Bangladesh Airlines, the country’s state-owned flag carrier. Biman currently operates a fleet of 19 aircraft, 14 of which are Boeing models, including 737s, 777s, and 787 Dreamliners. This latest order supports the airline’s long-term growth plan, which aims to expand the fleet to 47 aircraft by 2034 to meet increasing regional and international demand.

Government officials have confirmed that the order has not yet been finalized and must be reviewed by both the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs and the Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase. While the exact aircraft models have not been disclosed, the deal is widely viewed as a diplomatic overture to Washington at a time of heightened trade tensions.

The United States has proposed a 35% tariff on Bangladeshi exports, citing a growing trade imbalance. In response, Bangladesh has increased imports of American goods, such as wheat, soybean oil, and cotton, and now appears to be leveraging the Boeing deal to strengthen its negotiating position. Similar strategies have recently been employed by other South Asian nations—India and Vietnam have each ordered 100 Boeing jets as part of their trade diplomacy.

Despite the potential benefits, the deal has sparked internal debate. Officials at Biman Bangladesh Airlines have expressed concerns about the lack of consultation prior to the order being announced, raising transparency and operational planning issues. Aviation analysts are also questioning whether the move is being driven more by political motives than actual airline requirements.

Complicating matters further, Airbus has submitted a counterproposal offering to supply Biman with 10 A350 aircraft. This could diversify Biman’s widebody fleet and introduce enhanced long-haul capabilities, offering a modern alternative to Boeing’s lineup. However, the government has not publicly responded to Airbus’s offer, and it remains unclear whether a competitive procurement process will be followed.

Nevertheless, the proposed Boeing order signals Bangladesh’s intent to become a more prominent player in South Asia’s fast-growing aviation market. With regional air traffic demand rising and competition intensifying, the deal could position Biman for future growth—if managed with strategic alignment between government policy and airline operations.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, boeing.com