Biman Bangladesh Airlines (BG, Dhaka) is considering venturing into the dedicated freighter market with studies currently ongoing.

"A committee has been formed recently to assess the potential of the cargo market for Biman. They are expected to submit the detailed report within a month," Biman Managing Director AM Mosaddique Ahmed told the Financial Express.

The move was initiated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina following a directive issued in December last year.

At present, the state-owned carrier relies on bellyhold cargo space to handle its shipping requirements.

According to the ch-aviation capacity module, Bangladesh currently sees a total of 34 weekly cargo flights operated entire by foreign airlines. Qatar Airways and Saudia operate 7 each and Etihad Airways and Global Air Transport 4 each. Cathay Pacific and Uni-top Airlines follow with 3 flights per week, Hong Kong Air Cargo and Turkish Airlines with 2 per week, and finally Silk Way West Airlines and Sky Gates Airlines with one weekly flight each.

According to Biman General Manager (Public Relations) Shakil Meraj, Bangladesh exports 600 tonnes of cargo per day with 500 tonnes being imported.