Direct flight operations between Bangladesh and Pakistan commenced on Thursday as Biman Bangladesh Airlines launched its inaugural flight from Dhaka to Karachi.

The "fully packed" inaugural flight departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka, for Jinnah International Airport, Karachi.

The flight was seen off by Civil Aviation and Tourism Adviser Sk. Bashir Uddin; High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh, Imran Haider; Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism; Chairman, Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh; and Managing Director and CEO of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, along with other senior officials.

The launch of the direct flight is being hailed as a positive and long-awaited development, said the Pakistan High Commission  in Dhaka.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism underscored the importance of the Dhaka–Karachi route in enhancing connectivity, promoting tourism and strengthening people-to-people links.

He noted that Biman Bangladesh Airlines would gradually increase flight frequency and reduce airfares to make travel more affordable for the people.

He expressed hope that people of Bangladesh will visit Pakistan and explore its natural beauty, cultural heritage and diverse cuisines.

Speaking on the occasion, the High Commissioner recalled the vision of Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh and Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan aimed at enhancing connectivity between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

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

Passengers travelling on the inaugural flight expressed happiness and enthusiasm over the restoration of the direct air link, describing it as a milestone towards bringing the two countries closer, said the High Commission.