KARACHI: Direct air connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh resumed late Thursday as Biman Bangladesh Airlines operated its inaugural Dhaka–Karachi flight after a suspension lasting more than 14 years.
According to the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), flight BG341 arrived at Jinnah International Airport at 11:03pm after departing Dhaka at 8:15pm. The aircraft received a traditional water-cannon salute on landing, marking the carrier’s return to Karachi.
The PAA described the resumption of flights as a significant step toward strengthening ties between the two countries.
Earlier, Pakistan’s High Commission in Dhaka said the outbound flight departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport with a full passenger load. The send-off ceremony was attended by Bangladesh’s Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin, Pakistan’s High Commissioner Imran Haider, and senior aviation officials.
Addressing the inaugural event in Dhaka, Sheikh Bashiruddin said the Dhaka–Karachi route would enhance regional connectivity, promote tourism and strengthen people-to-people links. He added that flight frequencies would gradually increase, with efforts underway to make fares more affordable.
Pakistan’s high commissioner said the restoration of direct flights reflected the shared vision of interim Bangladeshi leader Muhammad Yunus and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to improve bilateral engagement. He noted that both sides agreed to fast-track the process during Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s visit to Dhaka last year.
Speaking to reporters in Karachi, Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori said cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh would extend beyond aviation to trade and other sectors.
Passengers arriving on the inaugural flight welcomed the return of direct services, calling it an important milestone in bringing the two nations closer.
Earlier this month, authorities from both countries confirmed plans to restore direct air operations following years of diplomatic and technical coordination.
