Pakistan Approves Direct Route for Bangladeshi Flag Carrier
Pakistan has granted approval to Bangladesh’s national airline to operate direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi, opening a new air link between the two countries. According to aviation sources, the decision marks a significant step towards improving connectivity and making travel easier for passengers on both sides.
The move comes after the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) processed a request for direct operations on the Dhaka–Karachi route. Once the required clearances were obtained from the federal government, the CAA moved to formally allow the airline to start services.
CAA and Federal Government Give Final Go-Ahead
Officials said the CAA approved direct flight operations after receiving formal clearance from the federal government. Following this, the director general of the aviation authority issued an authorization letter allowing the Bangladeshi carrier to begin operations between Dhaka and Karachi.
Under the approval, the airline has been granted permission to operate the direct route until 30 March 2026. The time-bound clearance gives regulators an opportunity to review performance, safety, demand and compliance before deciding on any extension or changes to the agreement.
Conditions for Using Pakistan’s Airspace
As part of the approvals, Pakistan has also allowed the Bangladeshi airline to use its airspace on the designated route. However, CAA sources stressed that operations must strictly follow the approved flight paths and air traffic control instructions while flying within Pakistan’s airspace.
Before each departure from Dhaka, the airline will be required to share complete flight details with Karachi airport authorities, including schedules, passenger counts and aircraft information. This is intended to support smooth coordination between air traffic controllers, aviation security agencies and ground handling teams at Karachi.
What the New Dhaka–Karachi Flights Mean for Passengers
For passengers, the launch of direct flights between Dhaka and Karachi is expected to cut travel time and reduce the need for connections through third countries. At present, many travellers rely on indirect routes with stopovers in the Gulf or other regional hubs, which can increase both travel time and cost.
A nonstop option from Bangladesh’s capital to Pakistan’s largest city could prove especially attractive for business travellers, students, medical tourists and families with ties in both countries. Direct services also make it easier for airlines to coordinate cargo and mail transport, supporting trade and logistics links alongside passenger traffic.
Boost for Regional Connectivity and Bilateral Ties
Aviation analysts see the new link as part of a broader trend towards improving regional connectivity in South Asia. Direct flights can help support bilateral trade, tourism and people-to-people contacts, even when political or economic conditions are complex.
Improved air links between Dhaka and Karachi may encourage more business delegations, cultural exchanges and student movements in the coming years. For both countries, easier travel options can complement other initiatives aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and regional integration.
Flights Expected to Start Later This Month
CAA sources indicated that the direct Dhaka–Karachi flights are likely to begin later this month, once the airline finalises its operational schedule and completes remaining formalities. Timetables, frequencies and fare details are expected to be announced by the carrier in coordination with Pakistani authorities.
For now, the approval until March 2026 gives Bangladesh’s flag carrier a clear window to test market demand and build a customer base on the route. If the service attracts strong passenger numbers and meets safety and regulatory standards, it could become a permanent feature of the regional aviation map.
