Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG306, travelling from Toronto to Dhaka, was stranded at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) in Italy for over seven hours following a technical fault. The delay triggered a knock-on effect, rescheduling the airline's Dhaka-to-Toronto flight and leaving hundreds of passengers in limbo.

Technical Fault and Passenger Distress

The aircraft, carrying approximately 260 passengers, landed in Rome at approximately 7:20 a.m. local time on Friday, August 7, for a scheduled refuelling stop. However, a technical glitch was detected, preventing the flight from continuing its journey. While Biman authorities described the issue as an "unexpected technical fault," some passengers claimed the aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing due to a mechanical failure.

Reports from onboard the aircraft paint a picture of growing distress. Passengers informed reporters that they were kept on the plane for several hours without being allowed to enter the terminal. According to passenger accounts aboard the BG306, travellers, including children and the elderly, began feeling unwell due to the heat and suffocating conditions inside the cabin. The aircraft was eventually declared grounded as repairs and safety inspections commenced.

Official Response and Accommodations

In a press release issued today, 8 August, Biman Bangladesh Airlines expressed regret for the inconvenience and emphasised that passenger safety remains their highest priority. The carrier stated that necessary inspections and repair work are currently underway to fully rectify the fault.

For the passengers stranded in Rome, Biman reported that it has arranged hotel accommodations, meals, and other necessary assistance. An updated departure schedule for the Rome-to-Dhaka leg of BG306 would be announced once the aircraft is cleared for flight.

Impact on Toronto-Bound Flight BG305

The grounding of the aircraft also disrupted flight BG305, which operates the Dhaka-Rome-Toronto route using the same plane. Biman rescheduled the departure of BG305 for 1:00 p.m. (1300 hrs) on August 8, 2026. 

Affected passengers for the Toronto-bound flight were requested to report to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka by 9:00 a.m.

Biman has advised passengers requiring further assistance or updated information to contact their 24-hour hotline at 13636. The airline continues to ask for the patience and cooperation of those affected as they work to resolve the technical issues.