Direct air connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh was restored on Thursday after a 14-year gap, as Biman Bangladesh Airlines operated its inaugural non-stop flight from Dhaka to Karachi. The resumption marks a major step toward strengthening bilateral ties and improving people-to-people connectivity between the two countries.
The inaugural flight, which was fully booked, departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka, and landed at Jinnah International Airport, Karachi. The launch ceremony in Dhaka was attended by Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism Sk. Bashir Uddin, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider, and senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, and Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
Speaking at the event, Sk. Bashir Uddin described the Dhaka–Karachi route as a long-awaited and positive development. He said the restored service would improve regional connectivity, encourage tourism, and deepen people-to-people relations.
“This route will boost connectivity, promote tourism and strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries,” he said.
The adviser also announced that Biman Bangladesh Airlines plans to gradually increase flight frequency and reduce fares to make travel more affordable. He expressed hope that Bangladeshi travellers would visit Pakistan to explore its natural landscapes, cultural heritage and diverse cuisine, noting that improved air access could unlock new tourism and business opportunities.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner Imran Haider said the resumption of direct flights reflects a shared vision between Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to enhance bilateral connectivity.
“The operationalisation of this route will significantly enhance youth, academic, cultural, business and family exchanges,” he said.
Haider recalled that during the visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar to Dhaka in August last year, both countries agreed to take immediate steps to restore direct air links. The launch of the Dhaka–Karachi flight, he added, was the outcome of that understanding.
The High Commissioner thanked the Government of Bangladesh, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh for their cooperation in facilitating the route.
Passengers on the inaugural flight welcomed the move, calling it a milestone that brings the two countries closer after years of indirect travel through third-country hubs. Many said the non-stop connection would save time, reduce costs, and encourage more frequent travel for family visits, education and business.
With the return of direct flights, both countries are expected to see renewed momentum in bilateral engagement, signalling a positive shift in regional connectivity and cooperation.
