Important developments have emerged regarding the restoration of direct civil aviation connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh in the new year 2026, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations.
According to sources in the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Pakistan has allowed Bangladeshi carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines to operate direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi. Following the federal government’s approval, the Director General of Civil Aviation Authority (DGCAA) formally granted permission to the airline to begin operations.
CAA sources said that Biman Bangladesh Airlines has initially been permitted to operate direct flights for a period of three months, up to March 30, 2026. The airline has also been authorized to use Pakistan’s airspace on approved routes and will be required to strictly follow the routes designated within Pakistan’s airspace.
In addition, Biman Air has been allotted a slot at Karachi Airport. The airline will be required to provide complete flight details to the Karachi Airport Administration before departing from Dhaka to Karachi, according to CAA sources.
The restoration of direct air connectivity is expected to boost the aviation sectors of both Pakistan and Bangladesh. Officials believe that the move will benefit people-to-people contacts as well as government-level engagement between the two countries.
Reporter: Khursheed Rahmani