PIA launches Sialkot-Paris flights

SIALKOT: The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) on Sunday launched Sialkot-Paris flights, ARY News reported.

The first flight (PK-720) arrived at the Sialkot airport from Paris. Upon arrival, the flight was welcomed with water cannon salute. Minister for Aviation Muhammad Mian Soomro was also present at the airport to welcome the passengers.

Speaking on the occasion, he vowed to make the national flag carrier one of the best airlines of the world.

A day earlier, PIA spokesperson said that new flights will help boost exports from the industrial city.

Prime Minister Imran Khan earlier on Jan 1 had directed the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) chairman to devise a comprehensive business plan to overcome losses.

Chairing a high-level meeting on reforms in PIA, the prime minister had said that the government wanted to make national flag carrier a profit-generating and independent airline.

PIA officials informed the prime minister that the total losses of PIA were Rs. 414.3bn. They had told the meeting that PIA is facing a deficit of 500 million rupees on seven international routes in addition to loss on domestic routes.