UK MPs Call for Manchester-Sylhet Flight Service to Be Restored

The suspension of Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ Manchester–Sylhet–Dhaka service has prompted a robust debate in the British Parliament, with MPs urging the carrier to reconsider a decision they say has disrupted travel, trade and family ties across the United Kingdom.

Raising the issue in the House of Commons on Thursday, Labour MP Paul Waugh, who represents Rochdale, said the direct Manchester–Sylhet connection is a vital transport artery for British Bangladeshis living not only in Greater Manchester, but across the North West, Scotland and the Midlands. He expressed concern that the sudden announcement to halt the route had left thousands of passengers with fewer affordable and convenient travel options.

According to Mr Waugh, many families and business travellers are now being forced to route their journeys through London, significantly increasing both travel time and costs. He warned that the suspension risks weakening people-to-people links between the UK and Bangladesh, particularly for those who regularly travel for family reasons, including during bereavement, as well as for entrepreneurs involved in bilateral trade.

During his intervention, Mr Waugh asked whether the Leader of the House would stand in solidarity with him and other MPs from northern constituencies by formally urging Biman Bangladesh Airlines to maintain the Manchester–Sylhet service. He stressed that regional airports such as Manchester play a crucial role in supporting inclusive connectivity, ensuring that international travel is not overly concentrated in London.

Responding on behalf of the government, Alan Campbell, the Leader of the House, acknowledged the strength of the arguments presented. He said the importance of direct air links for family life and commercial activity was well understood, particularly within communities with close overseas connections. Mr Campbell added that the depth of feeling among the Bangladeshi community in Rochdale and the wider region would, he hoped, be clearly heard by the airline’s management.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has announced that regular flights on the Manchester–Sylhet route will be suspended from March. Although the decision was initially expected to take effect in February, the airline’s board later agreed to delay implementation by one month, following early representations from stakeholders.

Outside Parliament, opposition to the suspension has gathered momentum. A UK-based Bangladeshi diaspora platform, “Save Manchester to Sylhet Route”, has launched a signature campaign on the digital petition site Change, calling for the reinstatement of the service. Organisers say the campaign has already received the backing of 25 MPs, with further parliamentary support anticipated in the coming weeks.

Key Developments at a Glance

Campaigners argue that restoring the route would reaffirm the importance of regional international connectivity and recognise the economic and social contribution of the British Bangladeshi community. As parliamentary pressure mounts, attention is now firmly on Biman’s response to the growing calls from both lawmakers and passengers.