'Hangsabalaka' the latest to join Biman fleet

The second Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft of national flag carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines arrived on Saturday night.

The new aircraft named “Hangsabalaka” landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:40pm, said Shakil Meraj, general manager (public relations) of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

AM Mosaddique Ahmed, managing director and chief executive officer of Biman, received the aircraft.

Earlier, the aircraft took off from Paine Field, USA after Boeing authorities officially handed over the key and ownership of the aircraft to Biman authorities. Captain Smoleski, Captain Shoeb, Captain Aminur and First Officer Anita conducted the flight operation.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina named the aircraft Hangsabalaka.

The Dreamliner will fly six times a week on Dhaka-London route, four times on Dhaka-Dammam and three times on Dhaka-Bangkok route.

The aircraft is capable of flying 16 hours straight, and requires 20 percent less fuel to operate than other planes.

On September 4, the national flag carrier marked a milestone with its maiden brand-new Dreamliner taking off for Malaysia. The aircraft was named “Akashbeena”.

The Dreamliners are part of a $2.1 billion order for 10 aircrafts signed between Biman Bangladesh and Boeing in 2008.

With the inclusion of the second 787, Biman now boasts a fleet of 15 aircrafts, which includes four Boeing 737-800s, four Boeing 777-300ERs, and two Bombardier Q400s.