Another private airliner makes its debut in the country which is scheduled to go for commercial flight operation from November 24.
State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism Md Mahbub Ali inaugurated Air Astra launching date, flight schedule and ticket sales program (official website) in a function held at domestic terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. Civil Aviation Authority Bangladesh (CAAB) Chairman Air Vice Marshal M Mofidur Rahman, along with other government and private officials, were present.
The state minister said, “With the launch of another airliner scope for choice of passengers on domestic routes has increased. I believe domestic airlines will establish areas of positive competition and cooperation which will be helpful for passenger services.
Air Astra Chief Executive Officer Imran Asif said, “Air Astra is proud to make its debut as a new airline in Bangladesh after almost 9 years. We are determined to establish ourselves as a reliable airline through safe passenger service and punctuality.
Air Astra will operate daily three flights on the Dhaka-Cox’s Bazar route and two flights on Dhaka-Chittagong-Dhaka route from November 24. Gradually they will operate flights all domestic routes of the country.
Air Astra has already taken delivery of two ATR 72-600 aircraft and will take delivery of two more aircraft within this year. By 2023, Air Astra’s fleet of aircraft will increase to 10. Made in France, the ATR 72-600 is a reliable aircraft with the world’s most advanced turboprop technology. The comfortable cabin of the aircraft is designed to carry 70 passengers.
