Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched its first-ever direct flight from Lahore to Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.

Flight PK-159 departed from Allama Iqbal International Airport with 174 passengers on board. A special ceremony was held at the international departure lounge prior to takeoff to mark the occasion.

In the initial phase, PIA will operate two weekly flights between Lahore and Baku.

The inaugural event featured cake-cutting and was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador Khazar Farhadov, Defence Secretary Major General Aamir Ashfaq Kayani, Pakistan Airports Authority DG Sameer Saeed, and Lahore Airport Manager Nazir Khan.

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Speaking to the media, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the previous PTI government had inflicted significant damage on the national airline, but efforts are now underway to revive PIA. He expressed hope that direct flights to the UK would resume soon and that the airline would expand its Baku operations from other cities as well.

Khawaja Asif also mentioned that PIA’s fleet would be expanded and new routes would be introduced to strengthen the airline’s global presence.

A day earlier, PIA had organised a roadshow to celebrate the launch of Baku flights. The event was attended by travel agents, tour operators, and stakeholders from the tourism industry.

PIA officials noted that Baku, often dubbed the “Europe of Asia,” is emerging as a major international tourist destination, known for its culinary delights, historical landmarks, and rich cultural heritage.