Why Biman Bangladesh is Grounding Dhaka-Manchester Flights from February 1

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has announced the indefinite suspension of its regular Dhaka-Manchester-Dhaka flights. The national flag carrier will halt the weekly two flights starting from February 1, 2026. This decision was made by the airline's board of directors. The route, which began in 2021, often operates via Sylhet.

Operational Challenges Drive Suspension

Biman cited several operational factors for the temporary move. These include a critical aircraft shortage and the upcoming annual Hajj operations. Additionally, the airline noted the need for long-term maintenance of existing aircraft. The goal is to ensure optimal fleet utilization and operational efficiency across its network.

Fleet and Hajj Pressure

Biman currently operates a fleet of 19 aircraft. Reports indicate the fleet size has shrunk following the return of leased planes. The airline has struggled to lease replacement aircraft despite multiple tenders. Widebody aircraft, like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner used on the Manchester route, are diverted for Hajj flights. This annual pilgrimage requires significant capacity from the national carrier. Biman had previously suspended this service from May 1 to July 10, 2025, for the same reason.

Commercial Viability Debate

The suspension has drawn sharp criticism from the UK Bangladeshi community. Many expatriates in the UK rely on this direct connection to Sylhet. They argue the Dhaka-Sylhet-Manchester route is commercially viable and sustainable.

However, industry reports offer a contrasting financial perspective. The Manchester route is reportedly one of Biman's loss-making international destinations. Each Dhaka-Manchester-Dhaka flight has been reported to incur a loss of approximately Tk 1.10 crore. This financial pressure had already led Biman to reduce the route's frequency. Flights were cut from three to two times weekly in late October 2024.

Passenger Impact and Alternatives

Biman is the only carrier offering a direct flight to Manchester via Sylhet. Passengers traveling with other airlines must use a transit stop. The suspension causes significant concern and dissatisfaction for the large Bangladeshi community in the UK's North.

Biman has committed to assisting all booked passengers. Assistance will be provided according to the airline's existing policies. Options include changing travel dates for the Dhaka-London-Dhaka route. Full ticket refunds are also being offered to affected customers.

For more updates on global airline operations and fleet changes, visit our commercial aviation news section. The airline has stated that passengers will be informed once the Dhaka-Manchester-Dhaka route flights resume.