LEITHEN FRANCIS / SINGAPORE

Biman Bangladesh Airlines is looking to replace its fleet of Fokker F28s and BAe ATP turboprops that are used on domestic routes.

The state-owned carrier says it is considering leasing or purchasing three Bombardier Dash 8 Q400s or ATR 72-500s and has issued a global tender notice soliciting offers on new or used aircraft.

The airline says it will also accept offers for its three F28 Mk4000s and two ATPs, but "if we don't get a good offer to trade-in the aircraft, then we will publish them for sale in July".

In recent years Biman has faced intense competition on domestic routes from new airlines, particularly from GMG Airlines, which operates Dash 8s.

Source: Flight International