Biman Faces Losses on Several Routes, Focuses on Middle East for Profit

Sources within Biman report that the airline is losing money on six key routes: Narita, Manchester, Delhi, Kuwait City, Kolkata, and Guangzhou, with the Narita route alone incurring an average monthly loss of Tk 20 crore. The worst-hit routes are those to Narita (Japan) and Manchester (UK), where low passenger demand has forced the airline to cut flight frequencies in an effort to curb losses.

Loss-Making Routes and Political Influence

Biman launched the Narita route in September 2023, hoping to revive direct connectivity between Dhaka and Japan. However, within just eight months, the route had accumulated losses exceeding Tk 166 crore. The decision to restart the route has been criticized, as a similar service was discontinued in 2006 due to ongoing financial losses. It is believed that the route’s revival was politically motivated, without conducting a thorough commercial assessment.

Similarly, the Manchester route has proven unprofitable, with each flight resulting in a loss of Tk 1.10 crore. In response, Biman reduced the frequency of flights from October and introduced a 30% fare discount to attract more passengers. To further alleviate pressure, the airline announced a temporary suspension of flights on the Dhaka-Sylhet-Manchester route from 1 May 2025 to 10 July 2025, with regular operations resuming on 11 July 2025.

Ground Handling Profits and Operational Improvements

Despite losses on several routes, Biman has remained profitable through its ground handling services at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Recently, the airport acquired new equipment, including air-conditioning units, air start units, and belt loaders, to enhance these operations.

Efforts to improve profitability also extend to increasing revenue per passenger, reducing operational costs, and improving flight schedules. Additionally, Biman is focusing on expanding its network with new international destinations, including Malé, Kunming, Sydney, Jakarta, Seoul, Wuhan, and Bahrain.

Success in Middle Eastern Routes

Biman has found success in the Middle East, with routes to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Doha, and Muscat proving profitable, partly due to additional baggage allowances for passengers. Other profitable routes include London, Toronto, Medina, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, Dubai, Bangkok, Kathmandu, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.

In response to rising demand, Biman has increased flights on its Dhaka-Toronto route. Since 31 October 2024, the airline has been operating three weekly flights, adding a Thursday service to accommodate growing passenger numbers. Additionally, from 28 March 2025, Biman will add another flight on the London route, bringing the total to five per week.

Strategic Partnerships and Marketing Focus

Aviation experts, including former Biman board member Kazi Wahidul Alam, emphasize the need for strategic partnerships with other airlines to expand Biman’s network and increase passenger flow. Alam highlighted that, unlike Biman, private airlines are excelling due to better marketing strategies and customer service. “If other airlines are profitable on these routes, why can’t Biman?” he questioned.

Biman is also working to enhance its ground support equipment (GSE) fleet to better serve its operations. With a fleet of 21 aircraft serving 23 international destinations, the airline aims to turn around its struggling routes while capitalizing on the profitability of its Middle Eastern connections.

Looking Ahead

While some routes continue to struggle, Biman’s management is committed to making adjustments to improve efficiency and competitiveness. With strategic route adjustments, improved operational processes, and a renewed focus on targeted marketing, the airline hopes to secure long-term profitability and strengthen its position in the global aviation market.