Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed its direct flight operations from Lahore to Paris after a suspension of five years, marking a significant step in the airline’s ongoing efforts to rebuild its European flight network.
According to a spokesperson, the first flight on the reinstated route—PK-733—departed from Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport at noon on Wednesday, carrying 276 passengers to Paris. The revival follows years of suspended connectivity with Europe due to regulatory and operational hurdles.
A ceremony was held at the airport to celebrate the launch, with airline officials and passengers attending to mark the occasion. The Lahore-Paris route is one of the national carrier’s key international connections, and its return is seen as an important milestone for the aviation sector in Pakistan.
PIA already operates two direct flights weekly from Islamabad to Paris. The addition of Lahore is expected to enhance travel convenience for passengers in Punjab seeking access to European destinations.
Earlier this year, in January 2025, PIA had reestablished its Paris link with a direct flight from Islamabad (PK-749) landing in the French capital after 4.5 years. That flight carried 317 passengers and was greeted with a warm reception at the Paris airport by PIA representatives and officials from Pakistan’s embassy.
PIA CEO Amir Hayat, along with other senior officials, was also onboard that inaugural flight, underlining the airline’s commitment to expanding its international footprint.
