In a defining moment for both aviation and gender representation, Pakistani female pilot Shahida Ismail captained Pakistan International Airlines’ (PIA) inaugural direct flight from Lahore to Baku, Azerbaijan, on Sunday.
The landmark launch not only strengthens Pakistan’s air connectivity with Central Asia but also underscores the growing contributions of women in national aviation.
Flight PK-159 departed Allama Iqbal International Airport at 11:50 AM, carrying 152 passengers, and marking the resumption of direct flights between Pakistan and Azerbaijan after a two-year hiatus.
A dignified inauguration ceremony was held at the airport’s international departure lounge, attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov, and senior aviation officials.
PM celebrates Women’s Achievement and Regional Linkages
In a message shared on X on Monday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif applauded the occasion, calling it “a significant milestone for tourism and regional connectivity between our brotherly countries.” He also highlighted the symbolic importance of Captain Shahida Ismail’s leadership of the flight.
“The inaugural flight, captained by Shahida Ismail, served as a proud reminder that Pakistani women continue to excel in all fields, including aviation,” wrote the Prime Minister.
He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening fraternal ties with Azerbaijan and achieving greater milestones across diplomatic, economic, and cultural domains.
Addressing attendees at the launch ceremony, Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif noted that PIA’s revival has exceeded expectations under the current administration. “Not long ago, many believed PIA would struggle to recover. However, following reforms under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, the national carrier is now regaining its footing,” he stated.
The minister emphasized that the new route to Baku was part of PIA’s broader strategy to expand its international network, which in turn would “open new avenues for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.”
Azerbaijan Ambassador calls its a new chapter in Bilateral Cooperation
Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Khazar Farhadov, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the new route’s significance for people-to-people linkages and economic engagement.
“This direct flight will significantly contribute to enhancing diplomatic, economic, and tourism exchanges between our two brotherly nations,” said Ambassador Farhadov, adding that increased connectivity would help deepen cooperation across sectors.
Twice-Weekly Flights to meet growing demand
According to PIA, the Lahore-Baku route will operate twice weekly, with flights scheduled every Sunday and Wednesday. The national carrier also noted that adjustments could be made based on passenger traffic trends.
A spokesperson for PIA said the initiative reflects the airline’s evolving international strategy: “The commencement of this new route signifies a significant milestone in the national carrier’s strategy to expand its international network and enhance connectivity between Pakistan and Central Asia.”
PIA financial turnaround and future outlook
The launch comes at a time when PIA is experiencing a rare positive financial shift. Earlier this month, the airline announced its first annual profit in over two decades, according to audited financial statements cited by Bloomberg. PIA reported earnings per share of Rs5.01 for the year ending December — a notable development as the airline proceeds with its privatization and restructuring plans under government oversight.
The successful launch of the Lahore-Baku route, captained by a pioneering Pakistani woman pilot, represents a broader narrative of transformation — for PIA, for Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations, and for the increasing visibility of women in leadership roles across traditionally male-dominated sectors.
As Pakistan continues to pursue enhanced regional ties and economic diplomacy, milestones like these set the tone for a more connected, inclusive, and ambitious national outlook.