Lahore, May 19, 2025: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the launch of direct flight operations between Lahore and Paris, with the first flight scheduled for June 18.
According to a spokesperson for the national flag carrier, the new route will operate once a week and aims to enhance travel convenience for passengers while contributing to the airline’s foreign exchange earnings. PIA already runs two weekly flights on the Islamabad–Paris route.
The move is part of PIA’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in Europe after recently resuming international operations. Earlier this year, the airline marked its return to European skies following a four-and-a-half-year hiatus, with flight PK-749 flying from Islamabad to Paris, carrying 330 passengers and 14 crew members.
The inaugural ceremony at Islamabad International Airport was attended by top government officials, including Aviation Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, PIA CEO Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat, and senior representatives of the Civil Aviation Authority and Pakistan Airport Authority.
Parliamentary Secretary Zeb Jaffar earlier informed the National Assembly that PIA had turned profitable since March 2024, following a period of extensive restructuring and operational reforms. She also confirmed that the airline had resumed flights to the European Union, including routes to Paris, as part of its renewed focus on restoring international connectivity.