Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched a special discount offer for passengers travelling from Paris to Pakistan, announcing a 25% reduction in fares. The limited-time promotion is valid for bookings made until August 31, 2025, and covers travel between August 25 and September 28. The discount is also applicable on connecting flights operated by Air France across Europe and the United Kingdom, providing wider travel options for passengers.
In a parallel development, the national carrier confirmed that it will discontinue its Lahore–Paris route due to low passenger demand. The final flights on this route are scheduled to operate on September 12 and 17. However, the Islamabad–Paris service will continue without interruption.
The move comes as PIA reshapes its international network to optimize operations and focus on routes with higher demand. Earlier this month, the airline inaugurated direct flights from Lahore to Baku, Azerbaijan. The first flight, PK-159, departed Lahore with 152 passengers onboard. The launch was marked by a brief ceremony attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov, and senior aviation officials.
Speaking on the occasion, Defence Minister Asif emphasized that the new Lahore–Baku route reflected PIA’s broader strategy to expand its international footprint and strengthen ties with partner countries. He noted that the airline was gradually recovering under the reform measures introduced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government.
PIA’s renewed focus on international expansion comes at a time of financial turnaround for the airline. Earlier this month, PIA reported its first annual profit in over two decades, posting earnings per share of Rs5.01 for 2023, according to audited financial results.
Industry analysts view the discount scheme, along with the introduction of new routes, as part of PIA’s efforts to rebuild customer confidence, improve profitability, and reposition itself as a competitive player in the regional aviation market.
