Biman's new CEO takes charge

Kyle Haywood

Kyle Haywood, a British national, yesterday took over as the managing director and chief executive officer of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

Haywood, 48, is the second foreign national after Kevin John Steele to serve as the CEO of the flag carrier. Steele was appointed in 2013 for two years, but he resigned in April last year on health grounds. Biman has been without a full-time chief executive since then, with AM Mosaddique Ahmed, a director of the airline, serving as the acting managing director. Prior to joining Biman, Haywood worked in Africa, Europe and the Americas, says a Biman statement. Haywood spent 19 of his 28 years in aviation with British Airways, and later worked with Etihad, Gulf Air, Air Arabia, Nasair and served as CEO of Air Uganda in Africa, Biman said.

“I am delighted to be taking up this challenging role, particularly at a time when the airline is pushing forward with its modernisation programme,” Haywood said.

He said Biman is well placed to become a stronger aviation player. “The ongoing fleet renewal allows us to build and improve a strong network whilst providing better punctuality and overall customer experience,” Haywood said.

The airline has made great progress in recent years and must continue to accelerate this positive rate of relevant change, he added. Biman directors appointed Haywood on September 11 last year.