There have been accusations of irregularities against Biman Bangladesh Airlines during the leasing of aircrafts to meet the pressure of Hajj flights.
A process is underway by the airline to lease two big crafts for the next three hajj seasons. But complaints have also risen this season over leasing aircraft and the ministry of civil aviation and tourism has formed a three-member committee to investigate the allegations.
Reportedly, Biman declared a tender on Sept 24, 2019, to lease planes. To select the tender, a technical financial subcommittee was formed.
But there is an allegation of irregularity in the tender selection process.
The three-member investigation committee is led by Joint Secretary Dr Mosharraf Hossain.
The complaint states that the condition of the tender was changed to give special preference to a specific organization.
Relevant to note, Biman had to face losses in the past with leased planes. By leasing two Boeing 777-200 from Egypt Air, Biman had to pay a monthly loss of Tk 110 million. Even in returning the planes, Biman faced hurdles and eventually, the loss totalled to Tk 6 billion.
MD of Biman, Mokabber Hossain, says: “Since there is pressure during Hajj season, Biman has amended the age limit of the aircraft to 12 years instead of 20; those who do not meet conditions of the lease will automatically be omitted; So there is no chance for underhand dealings however the probe report will give us a clearer picture.”