US-Bangla to add USD 1.11b worth 21 B737-8s in 2027

Dhaka: US-Bangla Airlines is set to significantly expand its fleet with the addition of 21 new Boeing 737-8 aircraft between January and December 2027 as part of its long-term growth strategy.

The fleet acquisition, valued at approximately USD 1.11 billion (around BDT 140 billion), will be facilitated through five international aircraft leasing companies and represents one of the largest narrowbody fleet expansion programs undertaken by a Bangladeshi carrier.

The airline said, the investment is expected to strengthen its operational capacity while creating new employment opportunities, supporting the development of skilled aviation professionals, boosting foreign exchange earnings, promoting tourism, and contributing to the country's overall economic growth.

US-Bangla will formally announce the expansion at a ceremony in Dhaka on July 29. Scheduled to be present are Paul Righi, Vice President of Sales at Boeing; US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen; US-Bangla Airlines Managing Director Abdullah Al Mamun; senior representatives from the participating aircraft leasing companies; and members of the travel trade.

According to the airline, the acquisition places US-Bangla among the few carriers worldwide to undertake such a large aircraft induction program in recent years and makes it the only airline currently committing to an order of this scale for narrowbody aircraft.