Millat seeks Highbury Group's help in leasing aircraft for Biman

Dhaka: The government is exploring the possibility of leasing aircraft for Biman Bangladesh Airlines to meet its immediate fleet requirements pending the delivery of newly ordered planes, with international aviation firm Highbury Group expressing interest in supporting the process.

The issue came up during a meeting between Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat and a delegation led by Highbury Group Managing Director William Prothero at the ministry in the capital on November 10, according to a release from the ministry.

During the meeting, Prothero highlighted the company's global experience in aircraft acquisition, financing, leasing, and asset management, and expressed interest in investing in Bangladesh's aviation sector.

Millat said the government was working to modernize Biman and strengthen its position in the international aviation market.

He said the government was considering leasing aircraft to bridge the gap between its immediate operational needs and the scheduled delivery of newly purchased aircraft.

Any leasing proposal would be evaluated against key technical and operational criteria, including aircraft flying hours and maintenance history, he added.

The minister also informed the delegation that the government plans to convert two aircraft from Biman's existing fleet into dedicated freighters to cater to the country's growing air cargo demand.

The initiative would help boost Bangladesh's cargo-handling capacity in international markets and create an additional revenue stream for the national flag carrier, he said.

Millat assured the delegation that the government would give due consideration to any specific and commercially viable investment proposal from Highbury Group.

The meeting also discussed opportunities for international investment in Bangladesh's aviation sector, aircraft financing and leasing, and the expansion of air cargo capacity.