Pakistan–Bangladesh direct flights resume after 14 years

January 30, 2026 (MLN): Direct flight operations between Pakistan and Bangladesh resumed on Wednesday after a gap of 14 years, as Biman Bangladesh Airlines launched its inaugural flight from Dhaka to Karachi.

The development marked a significant step toward strengthening bilateral connectivity and engagement.

According to the Press release issued yesterday, the fully booked flight departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for Jinnah International Airport, Karachi, restoring a long-suspended direct air link between the two South Asian nations.

The inaugural flight was seen off by the Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism Sk. Bashir Uddin, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider, senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Biman Bangladesh Airlines.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the adviser for civil aviation and tourism described the Dhaka–Karachi route as a long-awaited development that would enhance regional connectivity, promote tourism, and strengthen people-to-people ties.

He said Biman Bangladesh Airlines will gradually increase flight frequency and reduce fares to make travel more affordable.

He expressed hope that Bangladeshi travelers will visit Pakistan to explore its natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and cuisine.

Pakistan’s High Commissioner emphasized the shared vision of Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to enhance connectivity between the two countries.

He noted that during the visit of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar to Dhaka in August last year, both sides agreed to take immediate steps to resume direct flights.

The High Commissioner added that the operationalization of the route will expand youth, academic, cultural, business, and familial exchanges and reflect the aspirations of the people of both countries.

He also expressed gratitude to the Government of Bangladesh, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, and the Civil Aviation Authority for making the launch possible.

Passengers on the inaugural flight welcomed the restoration of the direct service and described it as a milestone in bringing Pakistan and Bangladesh closer after more than a decade of limited air connectivity.

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