After a long break of 14 years, Dhaka Karachi direct flights have officially resumed, marking an important step in restoring air connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh. The first direct flight was operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, ending years of reliance on indirect routes through Gulf countries for travelers between the two nations.
The flight, numbered BG341, departed from Dhaka at 8:00 pm and landed at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport at around 11:00 pm after a journey of nearly three hours. Pakistani airport officials and the Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that all necessary arrangements were completed to receive the aircraft, ensuring a smooth and secure arrival.
This development is being widely welcomed by business communities, travelers, and officials on both sides, who see it as a practical move to strengthen people-to-people contact and economic engagement.
Flights Schedule and Official Confirmation
According to airline officials, Biman Bangladesh Airlines will initially operate the Dhaka–Karachi route twice a week. These are the first regular direct passenger flights between the two cities since 2012. The airline described the relaunch as a response to growing demand from travelers who have long faced inconvenience due to the lack of direct connections.
An airline representative stated that the route will help reduce travel time and costs, especially for passengers who previously had to transit through cities such as Dubai or Doha. Airport authorities in Karachi also confirmed receiving the full flight schedule in advance, highlighting coordination between aviation bodies of both countries.
Impact on Trade, Travel, and Relations
Pakistan and Bangladesh share deep historical, cultural, and economic links despite being separated by more than 1,500 kilometers, with India in between. The restoration of direct flights is expected to support trade, tourism, and family travel, particularly for people with personal and business ties across borders.
In recent months, economic engagement between the two countries has already shown signs of growth. Cargo shipping routes from Karachi to Bangladesh’s Chittagong port resumed in late 2024, leading to increased trade volumes. Cultural exchanges have also expanded, with Pakistani artists performing in Dhaka and Bangladeshi patients traveling to Pakistan for medical treatment.
Aviation experts believe the return of direct flights could further strengthen bilateral relations and encourage more cooperation in commerce and tourism. If passenger demand remains strong, there is also the possibility of expanding flight frequency in the future.
The resumption of this air link is being seen as a positive and practical step toward closer regional connectivity in South Asia.