(By Mian Iftikhar Ahmad)
A significant development has emerged in the aviation relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh as the two countries have officially decided to restore direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi after nearly 13 years. This route, which had been suspended in 2012 by the former Sheikh Hasina government due to security concerns, is now being revived under the policy framework of Bangladesh’s interim government. According to officials, the Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism, Sheikh Bashiruddin, is scheduled to visit Pakistan later this month, where he will hold discussions with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, airport officials, and major business organizations in Karachi on technical and operational matters. The restoration of this route is expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade, labor movement, passenger traffic, and cargo transport, as Karachi — Pakistan’s largest commercial hub — has historically been an important destination for Bangladeshi traders, students, and expatriates. Biman Bangladesh Airlines has confirmed that it plans to launch three weekly flights between Dhaka and Karachi in the initial phase, with the possibility of increasing the frequency based on passenger demand and commercial viability. According to Biman’s sources, the reopening of this route aims to address growing regional trade trends, labor market requirements, and the need for improved air connectivity with Pakistan’s industrial cities, particularly because Karachi was previously one of Biman’s most profitable international destinations. During his upcoming visit, the Bangladeshi aviation adviser will also hold key meetings on enhancing bilateral trade, promoting cargo operations, expanding labor market cooperation, and strengthening regional connectivity. Earlier, on September 3, Chairman of Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority, Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Mustafa Mahmood Siddiq, met Director General of Pakistan Civil Aviation, Nadir Shafi Dar, in Dhaka, where both sides held positive and productive discussions regarding the restoration of flights. Bangladeshi officials believe that the resumption of this route will facilitate better access for the country’s export sectors — particularly garments, pharmaceuticals, and shipbuilding — to Pakistani markets. Business communities in Pakistan as well as Bangladeshi expatriates have welcomed this development, stating that direct flights will not only reduce travel time and logistics costs but also strengthen trade delegations and people-to-people interactions. According to Biman’s General Manager for Public Relations, Bushra Islam, talks with Pakistani aviation authorities are progressing positively, and once the route is fully restored, the Dhaka–Karachi air corridor will once again be active, creating new diplomatic, commercial, and social opportunities between the two South Asian nations.
