Dhaka: State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Rashiduzzaman Millat announced on Wednesday that the government is committed to transforming Bangladesh into a regional aviation hub under the guidance of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. He emphasized the development of an integrated aviation master plan aimed at ensuring sustainable and modern growth within the nation’s civil aviation sector in the coming decades.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Millat shared these insights during his address as the chief guest at the “Beyond with Boeing: Powering the Next Chapter of Aviation” event held at Hotel Sheraton in Dhaka. He noted the remarkable growth of US-Bangla Airlines, which has become a leading player in Bangladesh’s aviation landscape since its inception as a domestic carrier. The State Minister highlighted the government’s investment-friendly policies that are designed to bolster private sector expansion, attract investments, and create new opportunities for growth in the aviation industry.

In a significant move, US-Bangla Airlines is set to enhance its fleet with the addition of 21 Boeing aircraft through a lease program valued at approximately $1.5 billion. This expansion represents one of the most substantial fleet growth initiatives in the country’s private aviation sector. The fleet augmentation will comprise 15 Boeing 737-8 aircraft and six Boeing 737-800s, scheduled for phased induction by 2027.

The event also saw the participation of notable figures including Prime Minister’s Adviser on Civil Aviation and Tourism Humayun Kabir, National Parliament Whip Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T. Christensen, along with senior officials from Boeing and US-Bangla Airlines.