Biman has announced a new three-times weekly service to Bangladeshi capital Dhaka, which will get under way on 4 January 2020.

The carrier will operate the 10-hour route using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring 24 business seats and 247 economy.

Flights will operate on Saturdays, Sundays and Tuesdays, calling in the eastern Banglasdeshi city of Sylhet on the return leg from Manchester.

Biman’s return to Manchester was announced at a special event at the British High Commission in Dhaka, attended by Manchester airport chief executive Andrew Cowan and Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester.

It previously operated a Dhaka-Manchester-New York route, which ceased in 2012.

It is estimated in excess of 55,000 people travel between Manchester and either Dhaka and/or Sylhet.

Cowan said there was “significant demand” for a direct service to Bangladesh from Manchester.

“Manchester airport is the UK’s gateway to the north of England and within our catchment area there are many long-standing Bangladeshi communities for whom this will make a massive difference.

“We know there are many northern companies with a desire to trade in Bangladesh, while we also look forward to welcoming business and leisure visitors from that part of the world.

“This long-haul route is the latest we have added to Manchester in recent years as we continue to work hard to connect the north to key international destinations.”