South Asia

Bangladesh to restart direct Dhaka–Karachi flights after 12 years

Published: 16:16, 4 January 2026

Bangladesh is set to resume direct air connectivity with Pakistan as Biman Bangladesh Airlines prepares to relaunch regular flights between Dhaka and Karachi later this month, ending a decade-long suspension of the route.

The national flag carrier plans to operate the service from the end of January, marking its first flight to Pakistan’s largest commercial hub since 2012. Officials said the move reflects improving diplomatic and people-to-people ties between the two South Asian nations.
Biman spokesperson Boshra Islam said the airline has been in talks with Pakistani authorities for several months to secure approval for the route and has now received the necessary clearances. Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority has granted an initial operating authorisation for three months, valid until March 26, with the possibility of an extension based on performance and demand.
The decision comes amid a gradual thaw in Bangladesh-Pakistan relations following political changes in Dhaka in 2024, when a student-led uprising led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Since then, both sides have signalled interest in rebuilding ties after years of limited engagement.
Plans to resume direct flights were first announced in August during a visit to Dhaka by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, the first high-level visit from Islamabad in more than a decade. That trip resulted in agreements aimed at expanding cooperation in trade, investment, aviation and diplomatic exchanges.
Aviation and business leaders say the Dhaka–Karachi route could boost trade, facilitate travel for businesspeople and families, and improve connectivity for students and medical travellers. Direct flights are also expected to reduce travel time and costs compared to current indirect routes via third countries.
Bangladesh and Pakistan have had strained relations since the 1971 war that led to Bangladesh’s independence from then West Pakistan. The planned resumption of direct flights is being viewed as a symbolic and practical step toward normalising relations and expanding bilateral engagement after decades of distance.