ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed direct flight operations between Pakistan and China, restoring air connectivity between Islamabad and Beijing from October 30, 2026.
Under the newly announced schedule, the national flag carrier will operate one weekly flight between Islamabad and Beijing every Friday, providing passengers with a direct and convenient travel option between the two capitals.
PIA management said the airline remains committed to improving passenger facilities, delivering quality services and offering affordable and competitive fares.
PIA Partners with Three Chinese Airlines
In a major step towards expanding its operations in the Chinese market, PIA has strengthened its cooperation with three leading Chinese airlines: Air China, Shenzhen Airlines and Hainan Airlines.
Through its partnership with Air China, passengers arriving in Beijing will be able to connect conveniently to domestic flights serving various destinations across China.
The expanded cooperation is expected to improve travel options for Pakistani passengers and facilitate connections to major Chinese cities beyond Beijing.
Direct Pakistan-China Flights Resume After Disruptions
Pakistan and China have maintained decades-long air connectivity, but direct flight operations faced disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent travel-related challenges.
During this period, Pakistani and Chinese business communities, students and diplomats continued to call for the restoration of direct flights to facilitate travel between the two countries.
Beijing has traditionally served as an important aviation hub for Pakistani passengers travelling to different destinations across China.
PIA Flight Resumption Expected to Boost CPEC and Trade Ties
The restoration of direct flights comes as Pakistan and China continue advancing projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The renewed air connection is expected to facilitate business travel, trade activities, tourism, educational exchanges and people-to-people contacts between the two countries.
PIA’s partnerships with Air China, Shenzhen Airlines and Hainan Airlines are also expected to expand its reach in the Chinese aviation market, create additional passenger traffic opportunities and strengthen economic cooperation.
The resumption of the Islamabad-Beijing route marks an important development in Pakistan-China relations, offering greater convenience to travellers while supporting broader bilateral trade and investment ties.
