A new private carrier, Fly Dhaka, is preparing to launch operations by November this year, becoming the country's fourth active private airline alongside Novo Air, US-Bangla Airlines and Air Astra.

Jatiyo Party lawmaker and businessman Anisul Islam Mahmud owns the airline, which aims to establish both domestic and international presence. "Fly Dhaka Airlines is all set to spread its wings by November this year," announced Lt Gen (retd) Molla Fazle Akbar, the airline's chief executive officer.

The carrier has already secured its aircraft and is addressing matters related to acquiring the Air Operator's Certificate, prioritising safe travel coupled with affordability. Fly Dhaka will commence domestic operations using ATR 72-600 model aircraft before expanding internationally.

"Our aim is not only to establish a robust presence in the domestic market but also to extend to the global arena. Negotiations with a giant Asian airline is already underway to this end," Fazle Akbar said.

For international services, the airline intends to introduce Airbus or Boeing aircraft, ensuring safety, efficiency and reliability in global operations. Regulations require carriers to operate domestic routes for at least one year before receiving permission for international flights.

Fly Dhaka will be the 12th private operator entering the industry over the past 25 years. However, eight previous airlines were eventually forced to cease operations due to cash shortages, inefficiency and other reasons, highlighting significant challenges facing the sector.