K-P governor calls for revival of PIA flights from Peshawar

Underscores need for direct flights to and from Karachi, Gulf destinations, where many from Peshawar are employed

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi appealed to Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Monday for the restoration both domestic and international flight operations of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from Peshawar, citing growing travel demand and hardships faced by passengers.

In a formal letter addressed to the minister, Kundi called for the resumption of daily flights between Peshawar and Karachi, stressing that the current lack of options has led to inflated airfares and inconvenience for commuters, traders and business owners. At present, only one private carrier operates on the route.

Kundi also underscored the need to revive international flights from Peshawar, especially to Gulf and Middle Eastern countries, where a large population of overseas Pakistanis from K-P lives and works. He noted that the suspension of these routes has created difficulties for expatriates, their families, and entrepreneurs who depend on direct and affordable connectivity with the province.

Read: PIA to resume UK flights today

Expressing appreciation for the federal government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the national carrier, the governor expressed hope that under its leadership, PIA might reclaim its former reputation and operational strength.

The governor’s letter has been forwarded to the PIA Chief Executive Officer for necessary follow-up and action.

Reiterating his stance on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Kundi wrote:

I urge the Federal Defence Minister, @KhawajaMAsif , to restore daily domestic and international PIA flights from #Peshawar, particularly to #Karachi and Gulf destinations. Limited flight operations have long inconvenienced the people and traders of #KhyberPakhtunkhwa and… pic.twitter.com/DNPUF1zOXE

— Faisal Karim Kundi (@fkkundi) October 27, 2025

The appeal reflects growing pressure on authorities to enhance flight connectivity from Peshawar, which serves as a key travel hub for both domestic passengers and the province’s expatriate workforce.