April 21, 2025 (MLN): Marking a renewed chapter in tourism and regional connectivity between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, direct flights between Lahore and Baku have officially resumed after a two-year suspension.
Welcoming the development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed it as a “significant milestone” for enhancing ties between the two brotherly countries.
“I warmly welcome the resumption of PIA’s direct flights between Lahore and Baku after a hiatus of two years,” the premier posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.
He said that the inaugural flight, captained by Shahida Ismail, was also a proud reminder that Pakistani women continued to excel in all fields, including aviation.
He said that his government remained committed to achieving greater milestones in the fraternal ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, as bilateral cooperation was strengthening across sectors.
The prime minister also commended Aviation Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and his entire team for their efforts in advancing the country's aviation linkages.
The resumption of direct flight between Lahore and Baku was inaugurated on Sunday at a ceremony attended by Aviation Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Azerbaijan Ambassador Khazar Farhadov.
"Today’s the big day — we’re flying to Baku! A new chapter begins. Long-Live Pak-Azerbaijan friendship," the airline said in a statement.
