Bangladesh’s flag carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines has signed a firm order for ten Airbus aircraft, continuing its fleet modernisation and preparations to expand its international network. The order comprises four widebody A350-900s and six single-aisle A321neos, Airbus announced on 7 October.

The new aircraft will support network development from the airline’s main hub in Dhaka, including plans to connect Bangladesh with North America and key destinations in Europe and the Middle East. The combination of the two aircraft types will allow the carrier to match capacity to individual route requirements, from regional and medium-haul services to intercontinental flights.

Bangladesh’s large overseas diaspora, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, provides an important foundation for these plans by sustaining strong demand for international travel. Airbus also highlights growing foreign trade as a factor expected to increase demand for air cargo services.

Biman’s Chairman of the Board of Directors, Rumee A. Hossain, emphasised that the airline’s expansion plans are underpinned by a growing domestic market and connections with a diaspora numbering 15 million people, according to his statement. “In this context, our planned fleet expansion represents a measured and reasonable ambition,” Hossain said.

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President Sales, Commercial Aircraft, said the A350 and A321neo would provide Biman with the range, efficiency and flexibility needed to launch new international destinations and meet growing demand.

The A350 is designed for long-haul operations, incorporating lightweight materials, advanced aerodynamics and Rolls-Royce engines. According to the manufacturer, it offers approximately 25% lower fuel consumption, operating costs and carbon dioxide emissions compared with previous-generation competing aircraft. Its passenger cabin follows Airbus’s Airspace concept.

The A321neo is the largest member of the A320neo family and is intended for regional and medium-haul routes. Airbus states that the type delivers at least 20% lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared with previous-generation aircraft.

The announcement did not disclose the contract value, delivery schedule or passenger cabin configurations.