ISLAMABAD, Apr 6 — Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the suspension of multiple international routes and the withdrawal of most fare discounts as part of a cost-control plan driven by rising aviation fuel prices. The decision affects key destinations in Asia and the Gulf and is aimed at reducing financial pressure on the national carrier.
The move follows a series of increases in jet fuel prices, prompting PIA to reassess its operations. Officials said discounts will be discontinued across all categories, with limited exceptions for children and infants, as the airline seeks to balance rising costs without fully transferring the burden to passengers.
Key routes suspended in April
PIA will suspend flights to Beijing from April 11 and Kuala Lumpur from April 14. Services to several Gulf countries will also remain suspended until the end of April, with the exception of the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
Operations to the UAE will continue on a reduced schedule of 16 weekly flights, while flights to Saudi Arabia will operate as normal, ensuring connectivity on high-demand routes.
Fuel cost pressure reshapes operations
According to a PIA spokesperson, the latest measures come after the fourth consecutive increase in jet fuel prices, which has significantly raised operational expenses across the aviation sector.
The spokesperson said the airline has opted for internal adjustments instead of increasing ticket prices across the board, noting that passing the full cost to passengers would not be feasible under current conditions.
Officials added that the suspended routes are expected to resume once fuel prices stabilise and operational conditions improve.
Also read: PIA to resume London flights from March 29 after six-year gap
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