Biman Bangladesh Airlines Restarts Non-Stop Route After 13 Years
Flight tickets for Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ newly announced Karachi–Dhaka direct service were sold out within hours of going on sale, reflecting strong public demand. The rapid bookings followed the airline’s confirmation that it will resume non-stop flights between the two major cities after a gap of more than a decade.
Bangladesh’s national carrier announced on Thursday that the first direct flight will operate on January 29. The airline plans to run the route twice a week. This move restores regular direct air connectivity that had been suspended since 2012.
Biman manager Bosra Islam confirmed that the airline received an overwhelming response from passengers shortly after ticket sales opened. The swift sell-out indicates pent-up demand among travellers who have long relied on indirect routes.
For years, passengers travelling between Pakistan and Bangladesh had to book connecting flights. Most journeys involved stopovers in Gulf hubs such as Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi. These routes often increased travel time and costs. The return of a direct connection is expected to reduce inconvenience and make travel faster and more affordable.
Boost for Business, Tourism, and Family Travel
In an official statement, Biman Bangladesh Airlines said the direct flights would strengthen people-to-people links between the two countries. The airline highlighted benefits for business travellers, tourists, and families with cross-border ties.
Business communities in both Karachi and Dhaka are expected to benefit from easier access. Trade delegations, exporters, and investors have long advocated for direct air links to support commercial engagement. Tourism operators also see new opportunities as travel becomes simpler.
Families with relatives in Pakistan and Bangladesh are likely to be among the biggest beneficiaries. The direct route allows more convenient visits, especially for elderly passengers and those travelling with children.
The strong response to ticket sales suggests that the airline’s decision aligns with market demand. Aviation analysts say sustained passenger interest could encourage Biman to increase flight frequency in the future if operational conditions allow.
Improving Pakistan–Bangladesh Relations Drive Connectivity
The resumption of direct flights comes amid signs of improving diplomatic and economic relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Officials from both sides have indicated a desire to enhance cooperation after years of strained ties.
Cargo shipping between Karachi and Bangladesh’s main port in Chittagong resumed in November 2024. That development was seen as an important step toward restoring broader trade links.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, said last month that direct flights were expected to begin in January. He made the remarks during a meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus.
Relations between the two countries had deteriorated during the tenure of former Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Officials say ties began to warm following her ouster and subsequent exile.
Recent high-level visits have reinforced this trend. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited Dhaka in August 2025. National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq followed with a visit in December. These engagements signalled renewed political dialogue and confidence-building.
Aviation experts believe the Karachi–Dhaka route could serve as a foundation for broader cooperation. Direct flights often play a key role in deepening trade, tourism, and diplomatic engagement.
With tickets selling out rapidly, expectations are high that the restored air link will mark a new chapter in Pakistan–Bangladesh relations and sustained people-to-people contact.
