PIA Announces New Direct Flights from Lahore to Paris

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has declared the inauguration of a fresh direct flight route linking Lahore and Paris, enabling Pakistanis to journey to the French capital without the need for a layover.

In a statement released on Thursday, the national carrier announced that this new route is part of an enlargement of its revived network of European locations, subsequent to a prolonged suspension. The route will feature weekly non-stop flights from Lahore to Paris every Wednesday.

According to the airline, the inaugural PIA flight from Lahore to Paris is scheduled for departure on June 18. A weekly direct flight from Lahore to Paris will be available each Wednesday.

This development emerges following the airline’s resumption of European operations in January, subsequent to the removal of a four-and-a-half-year restriction by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

The ban was originally enforced in July 2020 after a scandal involving fake pilot licenses surfaced, which caused European regulators to limit PIA’s access to EU airspace.

PIA’s restoration to European routes commenced with a flight from Islamabad to Paris on January 10, representing a noteworthy achievement for the airline.

Presently, PIA is the sole Pakistani airline that provides direct flights to and from the European Union. The reinstatement and growth of routes to Europe are considered elements of PIA’s comprehensive endeavors to restore global credibility and impact the substantial Pakistani population residing in European nations.

The new Lahore-Paris route is anticipated to assist both business and recreational travelers, along with families desiring accessible travel options between Pakistan and France.

PIA officials express optimism that the Lahore-Paris route will enhance revenue and improve passenger confidence in the airline’s offerings. Additional information pertaining to ticket costs and bookings is anticipated to be disclosed shortly.

Aviation experts are closely observing the airline’s return to European destinations, emphasizing the necessity of consistent safety protocols and operational clarity in re-establishing confidence among global partners and travelers.