Bangladesh, July 22 -- "The government has decided to move ahead with the purchase of 10 Airbus aircraft," State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat told the media. "We expect to sign the agreement by August 31."

He said the Airbus aircraft would not join the fleet immediately, with deliveries scheduled to begin from 2031.

Under the expected deal, 4 aircraft will be wide-body and 6 narrow-body.

"Until the new aircraft are delivered, we will have to strengthen the fleet through leased aircraft," he added.

Millat said the financial details, pricing, and other terms of the procurement would be disclosed after the agreement is signed, noting that negotiations with Airbus are still underway.

The proposed acquis...