Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will launch direct weekly flights from Lahore to Baku starting Sunday, marking a new step in the national carrier’s efforts to expand regional connectivity.
The move aligns with Islamabad’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with Central Asian nations, particularly Azerbaijan.
“PIA will begin weekly flights from Lahore to Baku on Sunday, April 20,” the airline announced in a statement issued Saturday. “The inaugural flight is scheduled to depart tomorrow morning, carrying 174 passengers.”
The announcement was made during a roadshow held in Lahore ahead of the launch. The event brought together travel agents, tour operators, and key stakeholders from the tourism sector. PIA representatives shared details of the airline’s broader expansion plans and encouraged collaboration to promote regional travel and tourism.
“Baku is quickly gaining recognition as a global tourist hotspot, celebrated for its stunning architecture, diverse cuisine, and rich cultural and religious heritage,” PIA said in its statement. The airline also hinted at plans to introduce more international routes from Lahore in the near future.
This new route is expected to boost tourism, facilitate business travel, and foster cultural exchange between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. It also reflects Pakistan’s continued push to enhance air links as part of its diplomatic and economic outreach to Central Asia.
