Dhaka: Direct flight operations between Pakistan and Bangladesh resumed today after a 14-year hiatus as Biman Bangladesh Airlines launched its inaugural flight from Dhaka to Karachi, marking a significant milestone in enhancing bilateral connectivity and engagement between the two countries.

The fully booked inaugural flight departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka, for Jinnah International Airport, Karachi. The flight was seen off by Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism H.E. Sk. Bashir Uddin, High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh Mr. Imran Haider, Secretary Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Chairman Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, Managing Director and CEO of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, along with other senior officials.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism termed the Dhaka-Karachi route a long-awaited and positive development, highlighting its role in promoting connectivity, tourism and people-to-people ties. He said Biman B
angladesh Airlines would gradually increase flight frequency and reduce airfares to make travel more affordable, and expressed hope that Bangladeshi citizens would visit Pakistan to experience its natural beauty, cultural heritage and diverse cuisine.

Speaking on the occasion, the Pakistani High Commissioner recalled the vision of Honorable Chief Adviser of Bangladesh Professor Muhammad Yunus and Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to enhance connectivity between the two nations. He noted that during the visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar to Dhaka in August last year, both sides had agreed to take immediate steps for the resumption of direct flights. He said the operationalization of the route would significantly boost youth, academic, cultural, business, people-to-people and familial exchanges.

The High Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Government of Bangladesh, Biman Bangladesh Airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority for facilita
ting the launch.

Passengers on the inaugural flight welcomed the restoration of the direct air link, describing it as a milestone in bringing Pakistan and Bangladesh closer.