Pakistan’s aviation sector is set to receive a major boost as a new international airline announces weekly flight operations to Pakistan, starting in early 2026. The move is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, enhance tourism opportunities, and provide travelers with more affordable international flight options.
The new service highlights Pakistan’s growing appeal as an international travel destination and reflects rising demand for improved air links across South Asia.
Firstair has launched new Lahore to Colombo flights, offering weekly international service that connects Pakistan with Sri Lanka. This route provides passengers affordable and convenient travel options, boosting tourism and business links between the two cities. With modern aircraft and competitive fares, Firstair’s service enhances air connectivity for travelers in South Asia.
Under the new plan, the airline will operate direct flights between Colombo and Lahore, offering passengers a convenient travel option between Sri Lanka and Pakistan. These weekly services will be operated using modern narrow-body aircraft, ensuring comfort and efficiency for short-haul international travelers.
Route Highlights:
The new route is expected to attract business travelers, tourists, and members of the Pakistani diaspora seeking easier access between the two countries.
The launch of this new international route comes amid broader growth in Pakistan’s aviation industry and ever increasing online flight booking in Pakitan market Several airlines have recently expanded their operations, adding new destinations and increasing flight frequencies to and from major Pakistani cities.

Key international hubs connected to Pakistan continue to grow, reflecting improved confidence in the country’s aviation infrastructure and regulatory environment.
With the addition of new international airlines, Lahore Airport is rapidly emerging as a key gateway for international travel. Increased flight options are expected to improve competition, lower fares, and offer passengers greater flexibility when planning trips abroad.
Industry experts believe this expansion will also support trade, tourism, and cross-border cultural exchange.
The table highlights major low-cost airlines operating to and from Pakistan, offering affordable domestic and international travel options. These budget carriers connect Pakistani cities with the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, expanding flight choices and improving overall connectivity.
| Airline | Airline Type | Primary Hubs / Bases | Main Routes to / from Pakistan | Estimated Fleet Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fly Jinnah | Low-cost carrier (Pakistan) | Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore | Domestic & International (Sharjah, Jeddah, Riyadh, Bahrain) | ~8 aircraft | Pakistan’s first dedicated low-cost airline |
| Flydubai | International low-cost (UAE) | Dubai | Pakistan ↔ Dubai & beyond | ~50 aircraft | Strong Gulf connectivity |
| Air Arabia | International low-cost (UAE) | Sharjah | Pakistan ↔ Sharjah, Riyadh | ~50+ aircraft | Popular Middle East routes |
| flyadeal | International low-cost (Saudi Arabia) | Jeddah, Riyadh | Saudi Arabia ↔ Pakistan | ~50 aircraft | Rapidly expanding services |
| AirAsia X | International low-cost (Malaysia) | Kuala Lumpur | Karachi ↔ Kuala Lumpur | ~10 aircraft | Affordable Southeast Asia access |
| SalamAir | International low-cost (Oman) | Muscat | Oman ↔ Pakistan | ~8 aircraft | Budget Gulf connections |
| Flynas | International low-cost (Saudi Arabia) | Riyadh, Dammam | Saudi Arabia ↔ Pakistan | ~60+ aircraft | High-frequency routes |
| Pegasus Airlines | International low-cost (Turkey) | Istanbul | Turkey ↔ Pakistan | ~100+ aircraft | Europe–Asia connectivity |
| Jazeera Airways | International low-cost (Kuwait) | Kuwait City | Kuwait ↔ Pakistan | ~20+ aircraft | Strong regional demand |
| Air Arabia Abu Dhabi | International low-cost | Abu Dhabi | UAE ↔ Pakistan | ~15 aircraft | Gulf-focused budget routes |
The entry of new international airlines into Pakistan is seen as a positive signal for the country’s tourism and travel industry. Improved connectivity plays a key role in attracting foreign visitors and strengthening economic ties.
As more airlines consider Pakistan for route expansion, travelers can expect better services, competitive pricing, and enhanced global access in the coming years.
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