Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially launched direct flights between Lahore and Baku, Azerbaijan, in a move hailed as a major stride toward enhancing Pakistan’s international air connectivity and diplomatic outreach. The inaugural flight PK-159 took off from Allama Iqbal International Airport at 11:50 AM on Sunday, carrying 174 passengers on board and symbolizing the national carrier’s renewed efforts to expand its footprint in Central Asia.
Ceremony Marks the Beginning of a New Route
A special inauguration ceremony was held at Lahore Airport’s international departure lounge to mark the occasion. The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov, Defence Secretary Major General Amir Ashfaq Kayani, PIA CEO Amir Hayat, and officials from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA).
Read More: Israel says Gaza medics’ killing a ‘mistake’, to dismiss commander
A ceremonial cake-cutting and distribution of commemorative gifts to passengers added a festive touch to the event. Speaking at the ceremony, Khawaja Asif said the new route was a testament to the government’s success in restoring national institutions and boosting regional ties. He credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership for reviving PIA, which recently reported its first annual profit in over two decades.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
The launch of direct flights is expected to significantly boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people contact between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. Ambassador Farhadov welcomed the development, saying the route would enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also issued a statement, calling the new air link a “significant diplomatic achievement” and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its relationship with Azerbaijan.
Tourism is a key driver behind the route’s launch. Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, is renowned for its modern skyline, historic old city (Icherisheher), and picturesque Caspian Sea Boulevard. With streamlined e-visa services available to Pakistani citizens, the city is now more accessible than ever.
Flight Details and Future Expansion
PIA will initially operate two weekly flights between Lahore and Baku, with plans to increase frequency based on demand. The Lahore Airport Manager, Chaudhry Nazir Ahmed, also provided updates on airport upgrades, indicating further improvements to passenger services and international operations.
The airline’s expansion into Baku is part of a larger strategy to re-establish its international routes and position Pakistan as a regional hub for air travel. According to PIA officials, connecting Pakistan with fast-growing markets in Central and West Asia is a key component of this vision.
Read More: Kim Kardashian: From infamous tape to Oval Office via TV and Instagram
The Lahore-Baku launch coincides with a broader turnaround for PIA. After years of financial struggles, the airline recently posted its first annual profit since 2003, with an earnings per share of Rs5.01 for the year ending in December. The figures, based on audited statements reported by Bloomberg, highlight the impact of ongoing reforms as the airline continues to explore privatization options.