Airlines plan fleet expansion as third terminal nears launch

Bangladesh’s airlines are preparing for a major fleet expansion ahead of the opening of the third terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, a move industry stakeholders believe will boost competition and help reduce international airfares.

The government is aiming to inaugurate the terminal by December or early 2027. The Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) expects the new facility to significantly increase passenger and cargo handling capacity, easing pressure on the airport’s existing terminals.

Industry sources said the country’s four domestic carriers "Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines, Air Astra and NOVOAIR "plan to expand their combined fleet from 51 aircraft to 91 by 2027 through new purchases and lease agreements.

The expansion comes as several foreign airlines also prepare to launch or increase services to Bangladesh. Aviation experts say greater competition is expected to improve connectivity and put downward pressure on ticket prices.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines plans to expand its fleet from 19 to 29 aircraft by 2027 through leased aircraft, while also pursuing long-term fleet acquisition plans. The airline said the additional aircraft will support new international routes, replace older planes and improve operational efficiency.

US-Bangla Airlines, currently the country’s largest private carrier, plans to add 21 Boeing aircraft by 2027 and expand services to new destinations in the Middle East and Asia, with longer-term plans to launch flights to Europe, North America and Australia.

Air Astra also plans to enter the international market by expanding its fleet, while NOVOAIR is preparing to add new aircraft as part of its return to growth.

According to airport sources, 38 foreign airlines currently operate flights to Bangladesh, accounting for about 65 percent of the international passenger market. Several carriers, including Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air, are preparing to launch services, while others are considering increasing flight frequencies.

Former Biman board member Kazi Wahidul Alam said increased airline capacity would create greater competition and help lower fares. However, he noted that high taxes, ground handling charges and the strong US dollar continue to contribute to elevated ticket prices.