UAE-Pakistan travel: AirSial launches first international flight from Islamabad to Dubai
Inaugural flight PF784 flew 137 passengers from IIAP to DXB
DUBAI: AirSial has marked a significant milestone in Pakistan’s aviation history with the successful launch of its first international flight from Islamabad International Airport to Dubai.
Operated under the oversight of the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), Flight PF784 departed at 11:34am carrying 137 passengers on board. The private airline, founded by the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce, officially entered international skies with this inaugural flight.
A launch ceremony was held at the airport’s Business Class Check-in Zone 1.
The event was attended by prominent figures including Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif as chief guest, Defence Secretary Lt-Gen Muhammad Ali, PCAA Director General Nadir Shafi Dar, and Airport Manager Aftab Gilani, along with senior officials from AirSial.
On reaching Dubai, there was also a ceremony at the Dubai International Airport.
Why Dubai first?
AirSial selected Dubai as its first international destination, citing strong regional demand and connectivity opportunities. The route highlights the airline’s intention to link Pakistani travellers with major Gulf hubs using its fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft.
What’s next for AirSial?
This Dubai route is part of AirSial’s broader expansion. The airline had previously begun international operations in March 2023, flying to Jeddah, followed by direct flights to Riyadh, Madinah, Dammam, and Muscat. With the addition of Dubai, AirSial further strengthens its position in the Gulf region.
AirSial is a private airline established in 2015 by the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry. It began operations in 2020 to improve air connectivity from Pakistan’s industrial hub of Sialkot. The airline operates a fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft and has steadily grown its domestic and international network, including cities in Saudi Arabia, Oman, and now the UAE.