PIA Reopens Dubai-Skardu Direct Flights

UAE–Pakistan Direct Connection: PIA Restarts Dubai–Skardu Flights

On May 30, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced the restart of its direct flights from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to the scenic northern city of Skardu (KDU) in Pakistan. This route is not only aimed at boosting tourism but also plays a significant role in strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

The inaugural flight ceremony was held at PIA's office in Dubai, attended by a group of foreign tourists who traveled to Skardu on the first flight. This highlights that Pakistan’s northern areas, particularly the mountainous Skardu, are becoming increasingly appealing to international tourists. According to the PIA regional manager, the seasonal launch of this flight is a “significant step towards enhancing tourism and strengthening people-to-people ties between the UAE and Pakistan.”

Why is this flight important?

Skardu, located in one of Pakistan's most beautiful natural settings, serves as the gateway to the Himalayas and the Karakoram ranges. The region offers iconic locations, such as the K2 base camp or the Shangrila Lake, which were previously accessible mainly through domestic routes or complex connections. The direct Dubai–Skardu flights significantly simplify access, making the destination more attractive not only to the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE but also to other international tourists.

PIA's Financial Recovery

The launch of the new flights is not merely about tourism; it also sends an important message about the airline's financial health. For the first time in over two decades, PIA has reported a net profit. In the 2024 financial year, PIA's operating profit reached 9.3 billion Pakistani rupees (approximately 33 million dollars), while the net profit, after adjustments for tax effects, reached 26.2 billion rupees. This is especially noteworthy amid preparations for privatization, as the Pakistani government has previously taken over nearly 80% of the airline's historical debt.

What does this mean for travelers?

For passengers, the new Dubai–Skardu flights offer both convenience and new opportunities. Those who considered Skardu's fairy-tale landscapes a distant dream can now reach the region via direct flights. In addition, ticket prices could be more competitive, as the direct route reduces additional costs related to layovers.

Summary

PIA's new direct flight between Dubai and Skardu symbolizes Pakistan's tourism ambitions, the airline's financial revival, and the tightening of the relationship between the two countries. For travelers, it presents a new, convenient opportunity to explore the magical world of the Himalayas, while for the country, it brings hope for increasing revenue from tourism.

(Source of the article: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) press release.)