ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will resume its direct flight service between Islamabad and Beijing from July 3, the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported on Friday, saying the move would restore a key air link between the neighbors.
The PIA announced suspending and reducing its flights to Beijing, Kuala Lumpur and destinations in the Middle East in April over hikes in jet fuel prices caused by the Iran war. Jet fuel averaged at $195 a barrel in April, according to the International Air Transport Association, more than double the average last year.
“The revival of the Islamabad-Beijing-Islamabad route comes amid growing demand from students, business professionals, tourists, and families seeking efficient and convenient travel options between the two nations,” APP reported.
It said the direct service is expected to significantly enhance connectivity while offering passengers competitive fares, generous baggage allowances and a more comfortable travel experience.
“The restored route is particularly welcomed by the large number of Pakistani and Chinese students pursuing higher education in each other’s countries,” it added.
Quoting PIA, APP said the airline stressed that the resumption of direct flights aligns with its efforts to further deepen people-to-people contacts and foster closer relations between Pakistan and China.
