ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has granted permission to Biman Bangladesh Airlines to operate direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi, marking a significant development in regional aviation cooperation. The approval followed formal clearance from the Pakistani government.
According to officials within the Civil Aviation Authority of Pakistan, the Director General of the CAA authorised the commencement of direct operations after completing the required regulatory process. As a result, the Bangladeshi national carrier can now launch non-stop services connecting the two major cities.
Initially, the CAA has granted Biman Bangladesh Airlines permission to operate these flights for three months, valid until March 30, 2026. During this time, authorities will review operational performance and compliance with aviation regulations before considering any extension.
The CAA confirmed that the airline will be allowed to use Pakistan’s airspace along approved routes. However, it must strictly adhere to designated flight paths while operating within Pakistani airspace. In addition, slot approval has been granted at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, enabling the airline to schedule arrivals and departures.
Moreover, aviation authorities have directed the airline to share complete flight details with Karachi Airport officials to ensure smooth coordination and operational safety. Officials said these measures would help maintain international aviation standards while facilitating cross-border connectivity.
The CAA stated that the decision is expected to strengthen and promote the aviation sectors of both Pakistan and Bangladesh. Direct flights are also likely to improve trade, tourism and people-to-people contact between the two countries, which previously relied mainly on indirect routes.
Meanwhile, diplomatic ties between Islamabad and Dhaka have shown signs of improvement in recent months, particularly following political changes in Bangladesh. Relations shifted after the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid, who later fled to India.
In November 2025, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal handed down verdicts against Hasina in her absence, sentencing her to life imprisonment for crimes against humanity and awarding the death sentence over killings during an uprising. The verdict, delivered under tight security, triggered strong reactions in court and remains subject to appeal in the Supreme Court.
Against this backdrop, analysts say the launch of direct flights reflects cautious but positive momentum in bilateral engagement.
