KARACHI: After a gap of over a decade and a half, direct air connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh has been restored, with Biman Bangladesh Airlines launching its first flight from Dhaka to Karachi on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
The aircraft took off from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka and touched down at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, symbolizing a significant step toward revitalizing diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties between the two nations.
The ceremony marking the inaugural flight was attended by Sk Bashir Uddin, Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism of Bangladesh, along with Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, and senior officials from both civil aviation authorities and Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
During the event, Bashir Uddin emphasized the importance of the Dhaka-Karachi route in strengthening regional connectivity, boosting tourism, and fostering people-to-people relationships. He also announced plans to gradually increase flight frequencies and work towards lowering airfares to make travel more accessible and affordable for travelers.
Uddin also expressed optimism that Bangladeshis would take the opportunity to visit Pakistan, exploring its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse culinary traditions.
Pakistani High Commissioner Imran Haider highlighted that the resumption of direct flights was a reflection of the shared commitment by both governments to improve regional links. He mentioned that this move was a result of discussions held during a visit by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, to Dhaka last August.
Haider added that the restart of flights would significantly enhance exchanges across youth, academics, culture, business, and family ties, fostering closer relations between the peoples of the two countries.
Expressing gratitude to the governments and organizations involved, the High Commissioner acknowledged the efforts of Bangladesh’s Civil Aviation Authority and Biman Bangladesh Airlines in making this restart possible.
Passengers on the inaugural flight expressed their enthusiasm and hope that this development would serve as a bridge to greater cooperation, friendship, and mutual understanding between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
