Aviation university on cards

The government will set up an aviation university to provide both theoretical and practical education on aircraft, Civil Aviation Minister Rashed Khan Menon said in parliament today.

"We are considering establishing an aviation university keeping in mind the demands of the time," Menon said while replying to a question by ruling Awami League lawmaker Dipu Moni.

In a question, Dipu Moni said there is no scope for the meritorious students from the poor and middle-come families to become a pilot as it cost over Tk 27 lakh to receive training of a pilot.

Besides, the former foreign minister said Bangladesh would be able to earn foreign exchange as there is high-demand of pilots in the aviation industry across the world.

She wanted to know whether the government has any plan to establish an aviation university to this end.

Replying to another query, Menon said Biman Bangladesh Airlines is working sincerely to get rid of the losses the national flag carrier has incurred already.

He said four new aircraft have already been added to the fleet of Biman.

The government is implementing a number of programmes to further increase income from the tourism sector, he added.