Pakistan International Airline

Pakistan International Airlines, widely known as PIA, stands as the national flag carrier of Pakistan and a symbol of the nation's aviation history. Since its inception, the airline has played a crucial role in connecting the diverse landscapes of Pakistan—from the mountainous north to the coastal south—with the rest of the world. Known for its slogan "Great People to Fly With," PIA prides itself on delivering warm, traditional hospitality and maintaining vital air links for business travelers, tourists, and the global diaspora. With a legacy spanning decades, the airline continues to evolve, focusing on bridging distances and fostering cultural exchange through its extensive flight network.

Founded in 1955, Pakistan International Airlines has a storied history of being a pioneer in Asian aviation. It was the first Asian airline to operate a jet aircraft, setting a benchmark for the region in the mid-20th century. Over the years, the airline has grown from a regional operator into a carrier with a global footprint. Its mission revolves around providing safe, efficient, and courteous service, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan. The airline values resilience and commitment to service, ensuring that passengers feel a sense of home the moment they step onboard.

PIA operates a robust network of scheduled services to major cities across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. A significant portion of its operations is dedicated to serving the United Arab Emirates, providing essential connectivity for the large expatriate community and leisure travelers. The airline offers frequent flights connecting Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah to key Pakistani hubs. Travelers can enjoy direct access to major cities such as Lahore, Karachi, and the capital, Islamabad. Additionally, the network extends to other vital centers including Peshawar, Sialkot, and Multan, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the region.

The airline utilizes a mixed fleet primarily consisting of Boeing 777s for long-haul routes and Airbus A320s for regional and domestic services. This composition allows for flexibility and efficiency across different flight durations. Onboard, passengers are often treated to complimentary meals featuring authentic Pakistani cuisine, a highlight for many travelers. The airline emphasizes trained professional crew members and adheres to international maintenance standards to ensure a secure and comfortable journey for all passengers.

Contacting Pakistan International Airlines in the UAE

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, connecting with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is convenient due to the airline's extensive presence in the region. With dedicated offices in major emirates including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Al Ain, passengers can easily access support for ticketing, flight changes, and general inquiries. Whether you prefer visiting a local city office or contacting them via phone, the airline ensures accessible service for its large customer base in the UAE.

For the most up-to-date schedules and online services, passengers are encouraged to visit the official website.

Quick Contact Information

• Official Website: www.piac.com.pk
• UAE Customer Service (Dubai): +971 4 229 6100
• UAE Customer Service (Abu Dhabi): +971 2 635 2600
• Ticket Booking (Sharjah): +971 6 881 2222
• Email Support: info@piac.aero
• Mobile App: "PIA App" available on the App Store and Google Play

Social Media Channels

Stay connected and check for the latest updates through their official social media profiles:

• Facebook: facebook.com/PakistanIntAirlines
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/Official_PIA
• Instagram: instagram.com/pakistanintairlines

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

If you require in-person assistance, PIA operates several city booking offices across the country.

• Dubai Office:
  Khalifa Al Naboodah Building, Al Maktoum Street, Deira, Dubai.
  Phone: +971 4 229 6100 / +971 4 223 0267
  Hours: 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM (Mon-Sat), Friday Break: 12:30 PM - 02:00 PM.
• Abu Dhabi Office:
  Harib Tower, Ground Floor, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed St (Sheikh Maktoum Street), P.O. Box 72670.
  Phone: +971 2 635 2600 / +971 2 635 2602
  Hours: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM (Daily).
• Sharjah Office:
  Damas Building, Al Zahra'a Street, Government House Square, Opposite Matajer, Sharjah.
  Phone: +971 6 881 2222
  Hours: 09:00 AM - 08:00 PM (Mon-Sat).
• Al Ain Office:
  Al Khaili Building, Mezzanine Floor, Office #02 & 03, Al Ain.
  Phone: +971 3 766 0790

24/7 Global Support

If you are unable to reach a local UAE office outside of working hours, you can contact the 24/7 Global Call Centre based in Pakistan.

• International Contact Center: +92 21 111 786 786

Baggage Policy

Pakistan International Airlines is well-regarded for its generous baggage policies, designed to accommodate the needs of travelers visiting family, tourists exploring new landscapes, and business professionals. Whether you are flying from Dubai to Islamabad or Abu Dhabi to Lahore, understanding the baggage rules will ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

Passengers flying with PIA are entitled to bring hand luggage into the cabin, allowing essential items to be kept close during the flight. The allowance depends on your class of travel:

• Economy Class: Passengers can carry one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 7 kg.
• Executive Economy & Business Class: Travelers in these premium cabins typically enjoy a higher allowance, often permitted one piece weighing up to 12 kg.

In addition to the main carry-on bag, passengers are generally allowed one small personal item, such as a laptop bag, a lady's handbag, or a small camera case. Ensure that your carry-on fits in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you to avoid it being gate-checked.

Checked Baggage Limits

PIA typically operates on a Weight Concept for flights between the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan, meaning you are limited by the total weight of your bags rather than just the number of pieces. However, specific ticket types may have different rules, so always check your booking confirmation.

• Economy Class: Standard allowances usually range from 30 kg to 40 kg, often split across two pieces of luggage. This is particularly beneficial for long stays or family trips.
• Executive Economy: Passengers often receive an increased allowance, typically around 40 kg to 45 kg.
• Business Plus: The most generous allowance is reserved for Business Class, where passengers can often check in up to 50 kg of luggage.

Please note that for health and safety reasons, a single piece of checked baggage should usually not exceed 30 kg. If your total allowance is higher, you must split your belongings into multiple bags.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you plan to travel with more than your free baggage allowance, Pakistan International Airlines offers the option to purchase excess baggage. Rates are calculated per kilogram and vary based on the route—for instance, fees for a flight from Sharjah to Multan may differ from those for a flight from Al Ain to Islamabad. It is highly recommended to purchase extra weight in advance through the airline's offices or website, as airport rates are typically higher.

Special Items

PIA understands that travelers often carry more than just clothes. Here are the guidelines for special items:

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf bags, cricket kits, or skiing equipment can often be carried as part of your free baggage allowance. If the equipment exceeds the weight limit, standard excess baggage charges will apply.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit in the overhead bin. Larger instruments must be checked in or, in some cases, may require purchasing an extra seat if they are fragile and must stay in the cabin.
• Televisions/LCDs: Many passengers transport electronics. These are usually accepted as checked baggage but may be subject to specific handling fees and packaging requirements to ensure safety.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited or restricted:

• Lithium Batteries & Power Banks: These MUST be packed in your carry-on luggage. They are strictly prohibited in checked baggage due to fire risks.
• Dangerous Goods: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and sharp objects (like knives or scissors) are not allowed in the cabin.
• Perishables: If you are carrying food items, ensure they are properly packed to prevent leakage and spoilage.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

Make your check-in process effortless with these packing tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure you are within the limits for your flight to cities like Peshawar or Sialkot.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and destination address on every bag. Placing a copy of your contact details inside the bag is also a smart backup.
• Secure Your Luggage: Use TSA-approved locks to keep your belongings safe while allowing security personnel to inspect them if necessary.
• Pack Essentials in Carry-on: Keep valuable items, medication, travel documents, and a change of clothes in your hand luggage in case of any unexpected delays.

Pet Travel Policy

Pakistan International Airlines understands that pets are part of the family, and flying with a furry companion requires careful planning and care. The airline generally permits the carriage of domestic pets, such as cats, dogs, and birds, either in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on the route and aircraft type. Passengers planning to travel with animals must book this service in advance to ensure space availability and compliance with international regulations.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

For smaller pets that can remain with you throughout the flight, the cabin option is available on specific routes. This ensures your companion stays close and comfortable under your supervision.

• Carrier Dimensions: The soft-sided carrier must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you, typically not exceeding standard hand luggage dimensions (approximately 40×30×20 cm).
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the pet and the carrier usually must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pet Types: Generally restricted to small dogs, cats, and household birds.
• Limit per Passenger: Typically, only one pet container is allowed per passenger.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Larger pets that exceed the cabin weight limits can travel securely in the aircraft's hold. The hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure animal welfare during the journey.

• Container Requirements: Pets must travel in an IATA-approved hard-shell crate that is leak-proof, escape-proof, and ventilated. The animal must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Weight and Size Limits: While there is no strict standard weight limit for the hold, very large crates may need to be shipped as cargo. The total weight is charged as excess baggage.
• Temperature Restrictions: For safety, pets may not be accepted if the weather at the departure or arrival airport is too hot or too cold (e.g., above 29°C or below 7°C) without a veterinarian's waiver.
• Required Documentation: Valid health and vaccination certificates must be attached to the crate.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

Some journeys or animal types require travel via PIA Cargo rather than as checked baggage. This is the standard method for unaccompanied pets or very large breeds.

• When Required: Mandatory for unaccompanied animals, very large kennels, or when flying to countries with strict biosecurity laws (such as flights entering the United Arab Emirates).
• Special Requirements: This process involves a different booking system and may require a freight forwarder.
• Booking Procedure: Arrangements must be made through the PIA Cargo office well in advance of the flight date.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth check-in process at airports like Dubai or Islamabad, you must present the following original documents:

• Veterinary Passport: Identifying the pet and its owner.
• Health Certificate: A certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian, typically valid for 7-10 days prior to travel, confirming the animal is fit to fly.
• Vaccination Records: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, specifically a valid Rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 21 days before travel).
• International Certificates: Import/Export permits required by the destination country (e.g., MoCCAE permits for the UAE or NOC for Pakistan).

Service Costs

Traveling with pets is not included in the free baggage allowance and incurs additional charges. Costs are generally calculated based on the total weight of the animal and the kennel.

• In-Cabin Fee: Charges are typically calculated as a fixed excess baggage rate per kg, often subject to a minimum fee.
• Cargo Hold Fee: The weight of the animal and crate is charged at the applicable excess baggage rate for the route.
• Note: Prices vary significantly by route (e.g., flying from Abu Dhabi to Lahore) and are subject to change.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet for air travel helps reduce anxiety and ensures their safety.

• Carrier Requirements: Purchase the crate weeks in advance so your pet can get used to sleeping and playing in it.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal approximately 4 hours before the flight to prevent airsickness; provide water up until departure.
• Stress Reduction: Place a familiar blanket or toy inside the carrier to provide comfort. Avoid sedation unless specifically advised by a veterinarian.

Restrictions

For safety and regulatory reasons, certain restrictions apply to pet travel.

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) cats and dogs (e.g., Persian cats, Pugs, Bulldogs) are often restricted from the cargo hold due to breathing difficulties at high altitudes.
• Prohibited Animals: Wild animals, reptiles, and rodents are generally not accepted as passenger baggage.
• Exceptions: Service dogs helping passengers with disabilities may travel free of charge in the cabin, subject to prior approval and documentation.

Important: Airline policies and government regulations regarding animal transport change frequently. We strongly recommend contacting Pakistan International Airlines directly or visiting their local office in cities like Sharjah or Al Ain to confirm specific requirements for your travel dates.

Loyalty Program

Frequent travelers with Pakistan International Airlines can enhance their journey by joining PIA Awards +Plus, the airline's dedicated loyalty program. Designed to reward passengers for their continued patronage, the program allows members to earn miles on every flight and redeem them for a variety of travel benefits. Whether you are a business traveler commuting between Dubai and Karachi or visiting family in Islamabad, the program ensures that every mile counts towards future rewards.

Membership Tiers

PIA Awards +Plus offers three membership tiers, each designed to provide increasing levels of privileges and recognition. Moving up the tiers depends on the frequency of your travel and the accumulation of miles within a calendar year.

• Emerald: The entry-level tier where all new members begin their journey. Members start earning A+ Miles immediately upon enrollment and enjoy special offers from partners.
• Sapphire: As members fly more frequently, they upgrade to the Sapphire tier. This level unlocks additional perks such as priority check-in, extra baggage allowance, and priority tagging for luggage.
• Diamond: The most prestigious tier, reserved for the airline's most loyal customers. Diamond members enjoy exclusive benefits, including access to business class lounges, priority boarding, and the highest priority for waitlisted tickets.

Earning A+ Miles

Earning miles is straightforward and applies to all scheduled PIA flights. The number of miles accrued depends on the distance flown and the class of service booked. For instance, a flight from Abu Dhabi to Lahore in Business Class will earn significantly more miles than the same route in Economy. Members must ensure their membership number is quoted at the time of booking or check-in to automatically credit the miles to their account.

Redeeming Rewards

Accumulated A+ Miles can be exchanged for a wide range of rewards that make travel more affordable and comfortable. Members can redeem their miles for:

• Award Tickets: Free flights to domestic and international destinations, excluding taxes and surcharges.
• Class Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class or from Executive Economy to Business Class, enjoying premium comfort on routes like Sharjah to Peshawar.
• Excess Baggage Awards: A highly popular option for passengers traveling with heavy luggage, allowing miles to pay for extra weight instead of cash.

How to Join

Membership is free and open to individuals aged 12 and above. Travelers can sign up online through the official Pakistan International Airlines website or by visiting any PIA booking office. Once registered, members receive a permanent membership number and can immediately start earning rewards on their next trip from Al Ain, Sialkot, or any other destination in the network.

Service Classes and Onboard Experience

Flying with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is an experience rooted in traditional hospitality. Whether you are traveling for business between Dubai and Karachi or visiting family in Islamabad, the airline strives to make your journey comfortable and culturally immersive. PIA offers distinct service classes tailored to different travel needs and budgets, ensuring a suitable option for every passenger.

Business Plus

Business Plus is PIA’s premium service class, designed to offer exclusivity and superior comfort. It is the ideal choice for travelers seeking a relaxed and seamless journey.

• Priority Services: Business Plus passengers enjoy dedicated check-in counters, priority baggage handling, and access to exclusive lounges at major airports, allowing for a stress-free start to the trip.
• Seating Comfort: On wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777, used on high-demand routes, seats are designed to provide ample space and privacy. Many of these seats convert into lie-flat beds or offer significant recline, ensuring a restful sleep on longer journeys.
• In-Flight Amenities: Guests are welcomed with refreshing beverages and offered a selection of newspapers and magazines. A dedicated cabin crew creates a personalized service atmosphere.

Executive Economy

Bridging the gap between Business and Economy, Executive Economy caters to travelers who desire extra convenience without the premium price tag. This class typically offers greater legroom compared to standard Economy, along with priority check-in services and an enhanced baggage allowance, making it a popular choice for frequent flyers on regional routes.

Economy Class

Economy Class provides a cost-effective solution without compromising on essential comforts. The seats are designed with an ergonomic pitch to ensure a comfortable ride. Passengers in this class enjoy the same warm hospitality and complimentary dining services that define the airline's reputation, making it a high-value option for tourists and families traveling from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Al Ain.

Dining and Cuisine

One of the highlights of flying with Pakistan International Airlines is the culinary experience. The airline takes pride in serving hot, fresh meals on almost all international flights, including shorter sectors.

• Authentic Flavors: The menu features a rotation of authentic Pakistani cuisine, such as spicy curries, biryanis, and kebabs, prepared to halal standards. Continental options are also available to cater to diverse palates.
• Beverages: Passengers are served a variety of complimentary hot and cold beverages, including tea, coffee, juices, and soft drinks. Please note that PIA is a dry airline and does not serve alcoholic beverages.
• Special Meals: To accommodate dietary requirements, special meals (such as diabetic, low-sodium, or bland meals) can be requested at the time of booking or at least 24 hours before departure.

Entertainment and Connectivity

To keep passengers engaged during the flight, PIA provides an in-flight entertainment system on its long-haul fleet.

• In-Seat Screens: On Boeing 777 aircraft, passengers can enjoy a personal seatback screen featuring a selection of movies, TV shows, music, and documentaries. The content library includes international hits as well as classic Pakistani dramas and music.
• In-Flight Magazine: The airline's "Hamsafar" magazine is available in seat pockets, offering travel features, lifestyle articles, and information about Pakistan's rich heritage and tourist destinations like Lahore and northern valleys.

Special Services

Pakistan International Airlines is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for everyone, offering a range of special services for passengers with specific needs.

• Assistance for Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available for passengers who require it. Requests should be made at the time of booking to ensure ground staff are prepared at both departure and arrival airports.
• Families and Infants: For those traveling with infants, bassinets are available on specific bulkhead seats on a first-come, first-served basis. The cabin crew is also trained to assist parents, ensuring a smooth journey for the little ones.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline offers a dedicated service for children traveling alone. From check-in to handing over the child to the designated guardian at the destination, ground staff and cabin crew provide constant supervision and care.

Destinations and Route Network

Pakistan International Airlines operates a vital network connecting the United Arab Emirates with key cities across Pakistan, facilitating seamless travel for business, tourism, and family visits. With its primary hub located in Islamabad, the airline ensures robust connectivity from major Emirati airports to various regional centers in Pakistan, reflecting strong bilateral ties and high passenger demand.

Booking a flight with Pakistan International Airline (PIA) for your journey from the United Arab Emirates is a straightforward process, but a few strategic tips can help you secure the best value and a smoother experience. Whether you are planning a family visit, a business trip, or a vacation, understanding how to navigate the booking system is key to a stress-free start to your travels.

To find the most competitive fares, timing is everything. High-demand routes, such as those from Abu Dhabi to Peshawar or from Dubai to Islamabad, often see price increases closer to the departure date. It is generally advisable to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. If your travel dates are flexible, try searching for flights mid-week, as Tuesday and Wednesday departures are sometimes cheaper than weekend flights. Additionally, keep an eye out for seasonal sales during major holidays or festivals, which can offer significant savings on tickets to cities like Lahore and Karachi.

For those looking to maximize their travel budget, signing up for the airline's newsletter or following their official social media channels is a smart move. This is often where "flash sales" and exclusive promotional codes are announced first. If you fly frequently between the UAE and Pakistan, consider joining PIA's loyalty program, Awards +Plus. Accumulating miles on regular trips from Sharjah or Al Ain can eventually lead to upgrades, excess baggage allowances, or even free tickets.

Streamlining your airport experience begins before you even leave home. Online check-in is a highly recommended feature that allows you to select your preferred seat and print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device. This service typically opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure. Utilizing this feature can significantly reduce the time spent standing in queues at the airport, giving you more time to relax before your flight to Sialkot, Multan, or Faisalabad.

Seat selection is another important aspect of your booking. If you prefer extra legroom or a window view, it is best to select your seat during the booking process or immediately upon online check-in opening. While standard seat selection is often free, premium seats may come with a small fee. For long-haul or night flights, securing a comfortable seat can make a substantial difference in your journey's quality.

Utilizing the PIA mobile app can greatly enhance your travel management. The app allows you to book flights, check flight status in real-time, and manage your itinerary on the go. It is particularly useful for receiving instant notifications regarding gate changes or delays, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Finally, never underestimate the importance of travel insurance. When booking your flight, you may be offered the option to add insurance, or you can purchase it separately. A good policy covers unexpected events such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies abroad. Given the unpredictable nature of travel, having this coverage ensures peace of mind, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying your trip.

History and Development

The story of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is deeply intertwined with the history of the nation itself. The airline was officially established in 1955, following the nationalization and merger of Orient Airways with the proposed state carrier. Operating initially from its headquarters in Karachi, PIA was tasked with the vital mission of connecting the country's diverse regions and linking Pakistan to the rest of the world. From its humble beginnings with a small fleet of piston-engine aircraft, the airline quickly set its sights on modernization and international expansion.

The 1960s heralded a golden era for the carrier, marked by rapid innovation and record-breaking achievements. PIA gained global recognition by becoming the first Asian airline to operate a jet aircraft, inducting a Boeing 707 into its fleet. This bold move revolutionized air travel in the region, significantly reducing flight times and setting new standards for service. During this period, the airline also became a pioneer in opening new air corridors, famously becoming the first non-communist carrier to fly to the People's Republic of China, bridging East and West.

For travelers from the United Arab Emirates, the history of PIA holds a special significance. The airline played a supportive role in the development of the UAE's own aviation sector during the mid-1980s. PIA provided technical assistance, training, and even leased aircraft to help establish the fledgling aviation operations in Dubai. This historic collaboration laid the foundation for a lasting relationship, and today, the air corridor between Pakistan and the UAE remains one of the airline's busiest and most important networks.

Over the decades, the airline's fleet has undergone significant evolution to meet growing global demand. From the iconic Super Constellations of the early days to the induction of the Boeing 747 "Jumbo Jets" in the 1970s, PIA has consistently adapted to changing times. The 747s became a symbol of the airline's long-haul capabilities, connecting families across continents. In more recent years, the fleet has been modernized with the addition of fuel-efficient Boeing 777s for long-distance routes and Airbus A320s for regional and domestic services.

In a major modern development, the airline shifted its primary operational hub to the new international airport in Islamabad. This move was designed to better serve the northern regions of the country and streamline international connections. Today, Pakistan International Airlines continues to innovate, focusing on improving passenger comfort and maintaining vital links between major global cities and the cultural heart of Pakistan.