KARACHI/DHAKA (MNN); Direct air connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh was restored on Thursday after a gap of 14 years as Biman Bangladesh Airlines operated its inaugural commercial flight from Dhaka to Karachi.
The first flight landed at Jinnah International Airport late Thursday night carrying around 150 passengers and was accorded a traditional water cannon salute. A special reception ceremony was held at the airport to mark the occasion.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, speaking at the event, described the resumption of direct flights as a historic milestone and a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. He said cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh would extend beyond aviation to other sectors as well.
The return flight from Karachi to Dhaka departed with approximately 140 passengers on board.
The ceremony was attended by the Bangladesh High Commissioner, senior officials of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, Pakistan Airports Authority and the Airports Security Force.
According to aviation officials, Biman Bangladesh Airlines will initially operate two weekly flights between Karachi and Dhaka using Boeing 737 aircraft, with plans to gradually increase frequency.
Earlier, the Pakistan Airports Authority said the landing of the Bangladeshi carrier marked a new chapter in Pakistan-Bangladesh friendship. Flight tracking data showed the aircraft departed Dhaka at 8:15pm and arrived in Karachi at 11:03pm.
Pakistan’s High Commission in Dhaka said the inaugural flight departed fully booked from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. The flight was seen off by Bangladesh’s Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin, Pakistan’s High Commissioner Imran Haider and other senior officials.
Bangladesh’s adviser for civil aviation and tourism said the Dhaka–Karachi route would enhance connectivity, promote tourism and strengthen people-to-people ties. He added that airfares would be reduced over time to make travel more affordable.
Passengers travelling on the inaugural flight expressed satisfaction and enthusiasm, terming the restoration of direct flights a major step toward bringing the two countries closer.
