Dhaka-Karachi Direct Flights to Resume January 29, Boosting Pakistan-Bangladesh Ties | Quick Digest
Direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi are set to resume from January 29, after over a decade-long hiatus, signaling a significant thaw in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations. Biman Bangladesh Airlines will operate twice-weekly services, enhancing trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.
Pakistan's High Commissioner initially announced flights 'likely from January'.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines confirmed January 29 as resumption date.
Flights will operate twice weekly between Dhaka and Karachi.
Resumption marks warming diplomatic and trade ties.
Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority granted necessary approval.
Improved connectivity aims to boost business and cultural exchanges.
Direct flights between Karachi, Pakistan, and Dhaka, Bangladesh, are set to resume from January 29, 2026, marking a significant step in the improving bilateral relations between the two South Asian nations. The initial announcement was made by Pakistan's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Imran Haider, who expressed hope for the flights to commence in January during a meeting with Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on December 29, 2025. Subsequent confirmations from Biman Bangladesh Airlines and aviation authorities have solidified the launch date for January 29, with services operating twice a week.
This development comes amidst a notable warming of diplomatic ties, particularly following the political changes in Bangladesh in August 2024, which led to the exile of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government under Professor Muhammad Yunus. Relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh had remained strained for an extended period, making direct air travel difficult and often requiring transit through other hubs like Dubai or Doha.
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority has granted approval for Biman Bangladesh Airlines to operate on the Dhaka-Karachi route, allowing the use of Pakistani airspace. The resumption of direct air links, after a hiatus of over a decade, is expected to significantly bolster trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two countries. Both sides have expressed a keen interest in expanding cooperation across various sectors, including education and medical exchanges. This move is seen as a crucial component in fostering stronger people-to-people connections and building trust, paving the way for a new chapter in Pakistan-Bangladesh relations.
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