Dhaka–Tokyo flights to resume in June

Biman flights on the Dhaka–Tokyo route will resume from June in a bid to strengthen air connectivity between Bangladesh and Japan, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat said on Wednesday.

Responding to questions from journalists after a meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat, the state minister said a final decision to relaunch flights on the Dhaka–Tokyo route was taken following discussions with the prime minister.

The Narita–Dhaka route, which had previously been in operation, was shut down during the interim government period despite being considered a profitable route, he said.

Millat said a recent review found that the reasons behind the suspension no longer exist, prompting the government to take steps to restart the service. Initially, flights will begin operating from June, with plans to increase the frequency in the future depending on demand and profitability.

Return flights for Hajj pilgrims are expected to begin on 30 May. He said the entire Hajj operation this season is being operated through the national flag carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

The state minister also said that, as part of plans to expand the airline’s fleet, the government has already taken steps to add new aircraft. There are plans to purchase 14 new aircraft, which may be acquired from the US manufacturer Boeing. The agreement related to this is expected to be finalised by 30 April.

He added that discussions are also ongoing with the European manufacturer Airbus to develop a mixed fleet in the future. In addition, initiatives have been taken to increase the fleet in the short term by leasing new aircraft within the next two to three months.

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com