Md. Mahbub Ali, the State Minister of Civil Aviation and Tourism, underscored the significance of establishing direct air connectivity between Bangladesh and Tokyo, highlighting its potential to enhance the strategic partnership between the two nations. He emphasized that such connectivity would not only strengthen existing bilateral relations but also broaden their scope.
Speaking at the “Dhaka-Narita Inaugural Flight Ceremony” held at Hotel Welco Narita, the state minister commended the joint efforts of Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Bangladesh’s MGH group in organizing the event. The ceremony marked the return of Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ Dreamliner Boeing 787 Gangchil to Narita International Airport after a hiatus of 17 years, inaugurating the direct Dhaka-Narita route BG 0376.
Md. Mahbub Ali expressed the intention of Bangladesh and Japan to elevate their relations from a ‘Comprehensive Partnership’ to a ‘Strategic level’ in the near future. He noted that the introduction of nonstop air connectivity would facilitate increased opportunities for economic and technological cooperation, trade and investment, education, tourism, as well as cultural and sports activities between the two countries. He also highlighted the significance of this new Narita flight as a gift from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to Bangladeshi expatriates.
Highlighting the growth in foreign direct investment (FDI) in Bangladesh under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, the state minister encouraged investment in various sectors, including tourism.
Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Japan, Shahabuddin, emphasized the potential for substantial economic growth resulting from increased exchanges between the two countries. He expressed the embassy’s commitment to realizing the government’s plans and policies to strengthen socio-economic, commercial, trade, investment, and business ties in accordance with the new Japan-Bangladesh Strategic Partnership.
Shafiul Azim, Managing Director and CEO of Biman Bangladesh, expressed optimism about the profitability of the new route. Biman is actively promoting the Narita route with attractive packages, including enhanced baggage allowances, aiming to attract air travelers from Nepal, Bhutan, and the northeastern states of neighboring India.
The event also featured speeches by Mostafa Kamal, Chairman of the Biman Board of Directors, and Akihiko Tamura, President and CEO of Narita International Airport Corporation.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines is set to operate three flights weekly on the Dhaka-Narita route, utilizing Dreamliner 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft. Departures from Dhaka are scheduled for every Friday, Monday, and Wednesday, with returns from Narita on every Saturday, Tuesday, and Thursday.
