Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Muhammad Faruk Khan MP, has stated that the government is working to ensure the sustainable growth of Bangladesh's aviation industry.

Speaking today at a meeting at the ministry's office with Water Van Wers, Vice President of AirBus International and members of the Executive Committee of AirBus Group, along with Marie Masdupuy, French Ambassador to Bangladesh, and Sarah Cook, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, the minister emphasized this.

He further stated, "Under the directives of the Honorable Prime Minister, we are working to transform Bangladesh into a major aviation hub. Alongside the development of all airports nationwide, work is underway on the expansion of the fleet of national airlines, human resource development, and enhancement of security measures."

The minister added, "To expand the fleet of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, we have initiated the process of purchasing new aircraft. As part of this, Airbus has submitted their proposal. A high-capacity evaluation committee has been formed for assessing the proposal. After receiving the evaluation report of the committee, further steps will be taken. Boeing has also submitted their proposal, which will also be processed accordingly."

He said, "The aviation industry means not only airplanes or airports but also skilled human resources. We are emphasizing on creating skilled human resources and providing them with regular and appropriate training. In this regard, Bangladesh already has an Aviation University established. Besides, we have some institutions providing training in aviation. We want to enhance the capabilities of these educational institutions so that all training related to the aviation industry can be provided in Bangladesh in the future."

Regarding AirBus, the Vice President stated, "The economic progress of Bangladesh is admirable. Despite the global crisis, Bangladesh's GDP growth deserves praise. The aviation industry of Bangladesh is a promising sector. Airbus aims to have a long-term relationship with Bangladesh."

He further said, "Besides providing various types of technical assistance, AirBus is eager to assist Bangladesh in the development of all types of workers related to the aviation industry and in enhancing the skills of those involved."

After that, the country director of Thalas International appointed in Bangladesh, Binoit Nalion, met the minister.

The Minister stated at this time, "Bangladesh is working on the assurance of Smart Airport Management. Our Air Traffic Control, Instrument Landing System and other sides have been improved in the past few years, and further improvement is underway."

At this time, Thales's country director expressed interest in providing assistance to Bangladesh in improving the skills of those involved in Air Traffic Management, ILS System Upgrading, and Smart Airport Management.