Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will temporarily suspend its Lahore-to-Paris flights starting mid-September, the airline confirmed on Monday. A spokesperson said the decision was made due to low passenger demand on the route. However, flights between Islamabad and Paris will continue without disruption.
The Lahore–Paris route was launched in June, offering two direct flights per week. According to the airline, the final flight from Lahore will depart on September 17, with the second-last flight scheduled for September 12. The service has not met expected passenger numbers since its launch.
The aircraft previously used for the Paris route will now undergo renovations to prepare for PIA’s renewed focus on UK-bound flights. Two planes are currently being refurbished to support operations from Manchester, the airline said. These changes are part of the airline’s broader plan to optimize international routes based on demand.
PIA is also in the final stages of securing approval under the “Third Country Operators” (TCO) framework. This clearance is required to resume UK operations. The airline expects to receive authorisation by mid-September, after which the UK flight schedule will be released.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted its ban on PIA flights to the EU in November 2024, improving prospects for the airline’s European network. With UK operations now in focus, PIA is aiming to reestablish its footprint on high-demand routes while scaling back underperforming ones.