Cooke backs Airbus, Menzies investments in Bangladesh aviation

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke has backed proposed investments by Airbus and Menzies Aviation in Bangladesh, saying their expertise, technology and skills could strengthen the country's aviation sector and international connectivity.

"In this context, the UK is excited about the opportunities presented by the proposed Airbus and Menzies Aviation investments in Bangladesh," she said.

Cooke made the remarks while addressing a reception hosted by the British High Commission in Dhaka on Tuesday evening, where Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat was present as chief guest.

The High Commissioner linked the two proposed investments to Bangladesh's broader aviation development - with Airbus potentially supporting Biman Bangladesh Airlines' fleet modernisation and maintenance capability, while Menzies is seeking to bring international ground-handling expertise to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport's (HSIA) Third Terminal.

"Achieving these ambitions will require not only investment in infrastructure, but strong international partnerships that bring expertise, technology and skills," Cooke said.

She said Airbus' proposal could support Biman's future growth ambitions through a modern mixed fleet while also delivering benefits through training and skills development.

Cooke said Airbus has also indicated its willingness to support the development of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in Bangladesh, potentially creating local employment, developing technical skills and generating future revenue.

The High Commissioner also strongly highlighted Menzies Aviation's proposed investment as Bangladesh prepares to introduce a second passenger ground handler at the Third Terminal.

"We're equally excited about the opportunity presented by Menzies Aviation," she said.

Cooke described Menzies as a major global aviation ground-handling company operating at more than 350 airports worldwide and bringing "world-class expertise" in passenger, cargo and ground-handling services.

She said Menzies hopes to make a significant investment in Bangladesh, including creating more than 1,000 jobs at the Third Terminal and establishing an aviation training academy.

Cooke said such investment and international expertise could enhance Bangladesh's aviation potential and connectivity.

Her remarks come as Menzies competes for the second passenger ground-handling operation at HSIA's Third Terminal.

The company has previously announced plans to invest more than US$12 million in its first year if selected, covering ground support equipment, advanced aviation technology and workforce development.

Cooke said the UK has considerable expertise across the aviation value chain, ranging from aircraft manufacturing and airport operations to passenger services, technology and ground handling.

She said investment in HSIA's Third Terminal has the potential to significantly improve passenger experience and strengthen Bangladesh's position as an increasingly connected international destination.

The High Commissioner also recalled the memorandum of understanding on aviation cooperation signed between Bangladesh and the UK earlier this year, saying it reflected the two countries' shared commitment to strengthening connectivity, attracting investment and expanding aviation opportunities.

She said the UK looked forward to further strengthening cooperation in aviation, connectivity and investment under the leadership of Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Millat.

Cooke said the British High Commission wants to encourage further investment and commercial partnerships that could create lasting economic value for both Bangladesh and the UK.

She also highlighted UK Export Finance as an avenue for supporting investment and deeper commercial engagement.

The proposed Airbus and Menzies investments, she indicated, could therefore contribute at two critical ends of Bangladesh's aviation transformation - modernising airline capability in the air while strengthening airport operations on the ground.