Sylhet-Guwahati direct flights soon: Minister

Direct air link between Sylhet’s Osmani International Airport and Guwahati in India’s northeastern state of Assam will be launched soon to boost regional connenctivity, Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir announced on Sunday.

The minister made the announcement while addressing a discussion organised by the Sylhet Metropolitan BNP at the Muslim Sahitya Sangsad in Sylhet city, marking the death anniversary of former president Ziaur Rahman.

“In addition to increasing the capability of the airport, initiatives have been taken to turn it into a regional communication hub. As part of this, preparations are underway to launch a direct flight between Sylhet and Guwahati,” Muktadir said.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines is expected to operate the flights, connecting the two cities that serve as key commercial and cultural gateways for northeastern India and eastern Bangladesh.

The minister also highlighted that the government is working to strengthen the country’s export sector through improved air cargo services. Efforts are also underway to address challenges that emerged following a fire at an airport storage facility.

The proposed direct air link is expected to benefit thousands of passengers, particularly from Bangladesh’s large Sylheti diaspora, who frequently travel to and from India’s northeast. Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, serves as a major commercial and transport hub for the entire northeastern region.

Officials believe the new route will also facilitate medical tourism, trade, and people-to-people contact between the two neighbouring countries. The announcement comes as part of broader modernisation plans for Sylhet Osmani International Airport, which authorities aim to develop into a regional aviation hub.

No specific timeline for the launch of the flights has been disclosed yet. Further details regarding flight schedules and ticket pricing are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.