Dhaka, Friday, January 9, 2026 – Bangladesh Pakistan direct flights will resume after a 14-year hiatus when Biman Bangladesh Airlines launches the Biman Bangladesh Pakistan route between Dhaka and Karachi on January 29. The national carrier will operate two weekly flights, enhancing connectivity amid warming diplomatic relations.
This development signals stronger economic and people-to-people links in South Asia, where improved air access can boost trade, tourism, and medical travel, fostering regional cooperation beyond historical divides.
Bangladesh Pakistan Flights Resume: Route Details
Biman Bangladesh Airlines confirmed the resumption of Bangladesh Pakistan flights resume on the Dhaka-Karachi sector. Flights will run twice weekly on Thursdays and Saturdays.
The outbound flight departs Dhaka at 8:00 p.m. and arrives in Karachi at 11:00 p.m. The return leg leaves Karachi at midnight and lands in Dhaka at 4:20 a.m.
“The resumption of direct flights will significantly improve connectivity between Bangladesh and Pakistan, supporting business travel, tourism, and family reunions,” Biman Bangladesh Airlines stated in a press release.
Airline manager Bosra Islam told reporters the service relaunches the route after its suspension in 2012. Discussions with Pakistani authorities spanned several months to secure approvals.
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority granted Biman permission to operate the route initially until March 30, 2026. The approval includes use of designated air corridors in Pakistani airspace.
Currently, travellers rely on connecting flights via Gulf hubs like Dubai and Doha. These often extend travel time to 8-12 hours or more. The new direct flights Dhaka Karachi will reduce journey duration to about three hours.
Tickets for initial flights sold out rapidly, indicating strong demand from business communities, diaspora families, and medical tourists.
Direct Flights Dhaka Karachi: Diplomatic Context
The launch of direct flights Dhaka Karachi follows a thaw in relations after political changes in Bangladesh in 2024. Ties warmed significantly post the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Cargo shipping between Karachi and Chittagong resumed in November 2024. This preceded the air link restoration and boosted bilateral trade volumes.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, expressed optimism for January flights during a December 2025 meeting with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
Plans gained momentum after Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s August 2025 visit to Dhaka. It marked the highest-level engagement in over a decade.
Cultural exchanges increased, with Pakistani artists performing in Dhaka. Bangladeshi patients sought specialist treatment in Pakistan more frequently.
The Biman Bangladesh Pakistan route reflects practical cooperation in aviation and trade. Experts view it as a milestone for South Asian connectivity.
Biman Bangladesh Pakistan Route: Operational Aspects
Biman will deploy modern aircraft on the Biman Bangladesh Pakistan route. Experienced crews ensure safety and service standards.
The aerial distance between Dhaka and Karachi measures around 2,370 kilometres. The shortest path crosses Indian airspace, though overflight clearance status remains pending confirmation. Alternative routings may apply if needed. Biman coordinates with relevant authorities for smooth operations.
The initial three-month permit allows testing demand. Extensions are expected based on performance. Private Pakistani carriers like AirSial and Fly Jinnah previously received approvals for Bangladesh routes. Biman’s service leads the resumption of direct passenger links.
Trade potential includes textiles, garments, and agricultural products. Direct access supports small exporters and importers. Medical tourism grows, with Bangladeshis accessing advanced care in Pakistani hospitals.
Background of Bangladesh Pakistan Direct Flights
Bangladesh and Pakistan share historical ties as former united nations until 1971. Independence followed a liberation war.
Relations remained strained for decades under certain administrations. Recent shifts enabled pragmatic engagements. Cargo vessels restarted direct sailings in late 2024. This paved the way for passenger aviation revival.
Bilateral trade stands at approximately USD 700 million annually. Officials aim to triple it through enhanced connectivity. South Asia’s aviation sector recovers post-pandemic. Regional routes gain priority for economic recovery.
Biman expands its network despite fleet constraints. Recent Boeing orders support future growth.
What’s Next
Biman monitors booking trends for potential frequency increases. Additional days or destinations may follow. Pakistani airlines could launch reciprocal services. Discussions continue for broader air agreements.
Diplomatic engagements sustain momentum. Trade delegations and cultural visits are planned. The Bangladesh Pakistan direct flights resumption sets precedent for further cooperation.
As Bangladesh Pakistan flights resume fully, sustained operations will strengthen enduring partnerships across South Asia.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 9th, 2026
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