News
January 10, 2025
PIA Resumes Flights to Europe to Reconnect Pakistan with Europe
Karachi: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to relaunch its direct flights to Paris on Friday, January 10, a move that signals a major turnaround for the national carrier. After a four-year suspension due to the European Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) safety concerns, the airline has successfully restored compliance, paving the way for a highly anticipated comeback. This milestone reconnects Pakistan with one of Europe’s most iconic cities and represents a broader effort to restore the airline’s international presence.
PIA’s new schedule has been meticulously planned to suit the needs of modern travelers. Flights will leave Islamabad at 11:30 am, arriving in Paris at 4:00 pm local time. The return leg is equally convenient, departing Paris at 6:00 pm and landing in Islamabad at 5:00 am. These timings offer passengers flexibility, ensuring business travelers and tourists alike enjoy stress-free connections.
The inaugural flight from Islamabad to Paris will be marked by a high-profile send-off ceremony at Islamabad International Airport. Key dignitaries, including Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, PIA’s acting CEO Khurram Mushtaq, and the Secretary of Aviation, will honor the occasion. Upon arrival in Paris, passengers will be welcomed with special ceremonies, underscoring the significance of this historic route.
The resumption of Paris flights is the cornerstone of PIA’s ambitious European revival. Before the 2020 suspension, PIA served multiple European cities, including Barcelona, Birmingham, and London. Now, the airline is looking to expand its network to include destinations like Copenhagen, Oslo, and Amsterdam, reaffirming its role as a vital connector between Pakistan and Europe.
Beyond Europe, PIA has also set its sights on resuming transatlantic flights to New York, pending necessary approvals. To support its reinvigorated international strategy, the airline has allocated six Boeing 777 aircraft to routes across Europe, the UK, and North America, demonstrating its dedication to providing a world-class travel experience.
The lifting of the EASA ban is a game-changer for Pakistan’s aviation sector. The suspension, which was a significant setback for PIA’s global operations, spurred the airline to undertake extensive reforms. Over the past four years, PIA has revamped its safety protocols, upgraded operational standards, and restored international confidence in its services. The resumption of Paris flights symbolizes the culmination of these efforts and heralds a new chapter of growth.
The reopening of the Islamabad-Paris route is not just about reconnecting cities; it’s a step toward enhancing Pakistan’s economic and cultural ties with Europe. The direct flights are expected to facilitate trade, attract international investors, and boost tourism. For the Pakistani diaspora in Europe, the route offers a reliable and direct connection to their homeland, strengthening family and cultural bonds.
This move also aligns with Pakistan’s broader goals of positioning itself as a global tourism destination. With Paris serving as a gateway, the nation stands to benefit from increased visibility and engagement with international travelers.
Pakistan International Airlines is positioning itself as a symbol of resilience and ambition. The resumption of flights to Paris is a testament to the airline’s commitment to overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities for growth. With plans to expand further into Europe and North America, PIA is charting a path toward a stronger global presence.
The Islamabad-Paris route is more than a flight; it’s a statement of progress, a promise of convenience, and a step toward a brighter future for Pakistan’s aviation industry. As PIA reconnects with Paris, it invites travelers to rediscover the possibilities of global travel while reaffirming its place on the world stage. - TTW
Courtesy TTW
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