Islamabad to Paris: PIA resumes direct flights after 4-year hiatus
The refurbished Boeing 777 features Eiffel Tower design and ‘I Love Paris’ slogan
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has marked a major milestone by resuming direct flights to Paris, ending a four-and-a-half-year suspension.
The inaugural flight, PK-749, took off from Islamabad International Airport (IIAP) on Friday, carrying 330 passengers and 14 crew members aboard a Boeing 777 (AP-BGK).
To celebrate the occasion, PIA decorated the aircraft with a model of the iconic Eiffel Tower on its tail, while the nose featured the slogan "I Love Paris."
Islamabad to Paris flights
The Boeing 777, refurbished to meet European Union aviation standards, is set to offer twice-weekly services on the new route, with flights operating on Fridays and Sundays.
PIA has been eagerly anticipating the relaunch of this vital connection, with full bookings recorded for the first two flights. According to a spokesperson, the airline expects continued strong demand for this route, especially from the Pakistani diaspora in France, who have long called for more direct travel options.
The new service promises passengers not only affordable fares but also significant time savings.
In addition to direct flights, PIA has introduced a wireless in-flight entertainment system, allowing passengers to enjoy entertainment on their personal devices. The airline has also partnered with Air France to offer onward connections to 21 destinations across Europe and the UK, using Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) as a key transit hub.
The relaunch of this route comes after the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted the ban on Pakistani airlines operating in EU countries. The lifting of this ban has paved the way for PIA to reinstate its services across Europe, as part of its broader strategy to expand international connectivity.
PIA expansion
In a bid to further improve its service offerings, PIA is also focusing on modernising its fleet. The airline recently reintroduced an ATR aircraft that had been in long-term storage, enhancing its domestic operations. With this addition, PIA aims to strengthen its domestic network, including routes to Gilgit, Sukkur, Turbat, and Gwadar.
This ambitious expansion strategy also includes the introduction of international flights from the newly inaugurated Gwadar International Airport (NGIA), marking another historic step for the airline. With three weekly flights scheduled to Muscat, Oman, PIA is setting the stage for enhanced connectivity in the region, with more international flights expected soon.
PIA has also made it a priority to improve on-time performance, with the airline targeting a 90 per cent punctuality rate. A spokesperson stated that the airline has consistently met this target on a daily basis, further reinforcing its commitment to reliable travel for its passengers.