Dhaka, April 23 (V7N)— The government is set to sign a deal with US-based Boeing Company by April 30 to purchase 14 aircraft, while planning to inaugurate Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport’s (HSIA) Third Terminal by the end of this year, State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat said today.  

Millat disclosed the plans after receiving a briefing from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat.  

“The Honourable Prime Minister directed the authorities to turn the national flag carrier into a profitable entity at any cost,” he told reporters.  

The state minister said the government also intends to lease several aircraft to strengthen Biman Bangladesh Airlines and improve its commercial performance.  

Millat said the Third Terminal of HSIA would be inaugurated either on December 16 or at the beginning of the New Year, with Japan taking responsibility for handling operations.  

He added that international flights from Cox’s Bazar Airport are expected to begin within two to three months, with further decisions to be taken after the upcoming national budget.  

The government is also considering introducing a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to make tourist destinations more profitable, Millat said.  

The meeting further decided to examine past irregularities and corruption in Biman Bangladesh Airlines, he added.  

END/AJ/RH