Islamabad, Pakistan (Agencies): Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to inaugurate direct flights to Baku, Azerbaijan, starting April 20, signaling growing strategic cooperation between the two nations in trade, energy, defense, and connectivity.
The announcement was made during a special ceremony in Karachi, where PIA officials briefed travel agents and tour operators about the new route. Flights will operate twice weekly from Lahore, departing on Sundays and Wednesdays, with the goal of enhancing tourism and commercial links between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
The development comes as both countries deepen collaboration, with Pakistan offering Azerbaijan and other Central Asian states access to its Gwadar and Karachi ports. In return, Azerbaijan has pledged a $2 billion investment in Pakistan’s mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors, solidifying ties during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Baku in February.
PIA’s financial turnaround has bolstered confidence in the airline’s ability to expand operations. For the first time in 21 years, PIA recorded operational profits of $33.48 million and net profits of $94.32 million in the last fiscal year, surprising industry observers. The new Baku route is expected to further strengthen the airline’s position as the government moves forward with privatization plans under a $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) program aimed at reforming state-owned enterprises.
This initiative marks a key milestone in Pakistan and Azerbaijan’s evolving partnership, reinforcing regional connectivity while supporting economic growth and tourism for both countries.