Boeing Biman
Biman Bangladesh Airlines ordered 14 Boeing aircraft, consisting of 10 787s and four 737 MAXs, in a deal valued at approximately $3.7 billion at list prices. The airline’s board approved the purchase in early January 2026, and the formal signing ceremony took place on April 30, 2026, in Dhaka. This marks the largest fleet expansion in recent years for Bangladesh’s flag carrier and effectively ends competition with Airbus for this major order.
Order Composition
The 14-aircraft order includes eight 787-10, two 787-9, and four 737 MAX 8s. The 787-10 is Boeing’s largest 787 model and will accommodate 30-40 more passengers than Biman’s current 787-9. The four 737 MAX 8s will replace four 737-800s in the fleet.
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This order doubles Biman’s current Boeing fleet and advances long-delayed fleet modernization plans. There has been chatter for nearly two years. Officials stated the acquisition aims to increase passenger capacity, enhance long-haul operations, and improve both international and regional connectivity. The 787s will serve routes to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, while the MAXs will serve regional and short-to-medium-haul destinations.
Geopolitical Context
The decision to select Boeing over Airbus reflects both operational considerations and broader geopolitical factors. Bangladesh’s interim government previously pledged to purchase 25 aircraft from Boeing as part of efforts to reduce the trade deficit with the United States. The order follows extensive diplomatic engagement by both American and European representatives, who advocated for their respective manufacturers.
Additionally, the order aligns with Biman’s existing fleet composition, which already includes multiple Boeing types, supporting standardization of maintenance, training, and network planning.
Current Fleet and Delivery Timeline
Biman currently operates a fleet of 19 aircraft, including four 737-800s, four 777-300ERs, four 787-8s, two 787-9s, and five DHC-8-400s. This order significantly expands the airline’s widebody capacity by adding 10 787s to its current six. The expansion coincides with preparations for the new terminal at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to begin operations, which is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s position as a regional aviation hub.
Bottom Line
Boeing has been on something of a winning streak this year. As welcome as this is for the OEM, these orders are topping up a funnel to overflowing. Why? Because Boeing’s 787 deliveries are running late, with some sitting in limbo for years.
Then there’s the MAX. Highly fuel-efficient and in high demand, Boeing can’t get them delivered fast enough as it is. Last month’s wiring kerfuffle dented Renton’s improving rhythm. The numbers show it, and if there’s one program that absolutely must not have any hiccups, it’s MAX.
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