Dhaka-Narita flights back from July 27

Biman Bangladesh Airlines will resume direct flights on the Dhaka-Narita-Dhaka route from July 27 after completing regulatory requirements, restoring Bangladesh’s only non-stop air link with Japan following a year-long suspension.

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanom Rita announced the development at a press conference at the Department of Information on Tuesday, saying the restoration of the route is a government priority amid expanding economic, trade and people-to-people ties between Bangladesh and Japan.

She said Biman had initially planned to restart operations by June 30, but the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) required nearly 45 days to complete a mandatory safety audit before granting approval.
“As a result, we are working to complete all related procedures and relaunch the Dhaka-Narita service on July 27,” she said.

Flights on the route were suspended from July 1, 2025, due to commercial viability concerns, aircraft shortages and the need for optimal utilisation of resources.

Rita said the present government, after assuming office, instructed Biman Bangladesh Airlines to restore the route to further strengthen bilateral relations with Japan and enhance economic, commercial and social connectivity between the two countries.
Initially, Biman will operate one weekly flight using a Boeing 787-800 Dreamliner, maintaining competitive fares. Ticket sales are expected to begin on June 20 through Biman’s website and other authorised channels.

She added that the frequency of flights will be increased gradually depending on commercial performance and fleet expansion of the national carrier.

The minister noted that international routes typically take time to become profitable as market positioning, passenger confidence and demand develop gradually.

“With effective marketing strategies, rising passenger numbers and efficient management, the route’s prospects will continue to improve,” she said.

Highlighting the importance of the Japan market, Rita said growing trade and investment, an increasing number of Bangladeshi students and workers in Japan, and enhanced government-level connectivity initiatives have created significant opportunities for the route.

She expressed hope that the resumption of the Dhaka-Narita service would further strengthen economic, trade and people-to-people relations between the two countries.