UK MP slams Biman in House of Commons, urges airline to restore Manchester-Sylhet flights
The Labour MP for Rochdale, Paul Waugh, has urged Biman Bangladesh Airlines to reconsider its decision to suspend direct flights between Manchester and Sylhet, saying the route is a vital "lifeline" for British Bangladeshis.
Raising the issue in the House of Commons yesterday (15 January), Waugh said the British Bangladeshi community in Rochdale, across the whole north-west, and stretching as far as Scotland and the Midlands, relies on Biman's direct flight from Manchester to Sylhet.
"However, Biman has suddenly announced the suspension of that route, cutting off a lifeline for families and businesses who travel and trade between our two countries, and leaving many facing the huge cost of travelling directly through London instead.
"Will the leader of the House join me and every other MP across the north in urging the airline to think again, listen to our constituents and restore that flight as soon as possible?"
Responding, Sir Alan Campbell, leader of the House, acknowledged the concerns raised and described the flight link as vital.
"I thank my honourable friend for making such a powerful case for the restoration of that flight link. These links are vital for family travel, when there are bereavements, and for business.
"I am sure that the airline has today heard from my honourable friend about the strength of feeling about this subject in the Bangladeshi community in Rochdale and across the region. I certainly hope that it is listening to what he has said."
The call comes after Biman's announcement earlier this month that it would suspend the route from February, citing Hajj flight operations and other operational considerations.
Two days later, on 6 January, Biman said it had postponed by one month its decision to suspend flights on the Dhaka-Sylhet-Manchester route, shifting the suspension date to 1 March from 1 February.
The national flag carrier offered to assist affected travellers under existing policies. Options include rebooking on the Dhaka-London route, changing travel dates, refunds, and other services.