Pak, Iran resume direct flights after six decades

In a significant development for Pakistan-Iran relations, a direct flight between Islamabad and Tehran has been restored after 60 years, with Iran Air Tour set to operate a weekly service every Tuesday.

The inaugural ceremony of the resumed air link was held at Islamabad International Airport on Thursday, attended by a large number of guests from both Pakistan and Iran. Officials hailed the move as a milestone for regional connectivity, tourism, and trade.

Speaking on the occasion, Iran's Deputy Head of Mission in Pakistan, Nabi Shirazi, said the launch of Iran Air Tour flights would promote tourism, enabling religious pilgrims, students, and businesspersons to travel conveniently between the two capitals.

Shirazi added that the bilateral air agreement was finalised successfully following the recent visit of Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian. He congratulated the citizens of both countries, as well as stakeholders in the tourism and business sectors, on the restoration of the flights.

Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghaddam, also expressed optimism that the resumption of direct flights would give tourism "an unprecedented boost," allowing Iranian citizens to experience Pakistan's natural beauty and hospitality.

Zaheer Abbas Khan, Country Manager of Iran Air Tour, announced the start of direct flights between Islamabad and Tehran.