Pakistan International Airline flights and airline information

Pakistan International (IATA: PK) is the national flagship carrier of Pakistan and the country's largest airline. Founded in the middle of the last century, it connects Pakistan with key global cities, providing a reliable link between the East and the West. The airline's main operational hub and headquarters are located at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, where it operates flights to dozens of domestic and international destinations.

The airline positions itself as a full-service network carrier, offering passengers more than just a flight, but a comprehensive range of services, including in-flight meals and baggage allowance. Pakistan International is not part of any global aviation alliances, allowing it to maintain a unique approach to service and develop its own standards of hospitality. The company's fleet consists of modern narrow-body and wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A320 and Boeing 777 families.

One of the carrier's key features is its deep historical connection to the region. The company's history began even before the official brand formation, with the operations of Orient Airways, making it the oldest aviation enterprise in South Asia. Today, the airline continues to evolve, implementing modern booking technologies and updating onboard service to meet international expectations.

Passengers choose Pakistan International for convenient connections through hubs in Islamabad and Lahore, as well as the ability to reach remote parts of the country such as Skardu or Gilgit. In 2025, the company underwent a privatization stage, which opened new prospects for fleet modernization and improving the quality of passenger service.

To contact Pakistan International representatives and receive support, you can use the following communication channels:

• Official website: www.piac.com.pk
• Main contact center phone: +92-21-111-786-786
• Email for general inquiries: info@piac.aero
• Customer support service: care@piac.aero
• Official Facebook page: Pakistan International Airlines
• Mobile app: PIA App (available on the App Store and Google Play)
• Head office address: PIA Head Office, Jinnah International Airport, Karachi 75200, Pakistan

In case of emergencies such as flight delays or lost baggage, it is recommended to contact the check-in counters at the airport or the specified hotline number. Please check the current contact information on the airline's official website before your trip.

Baggage rules for Pakistan International depend on the selected fare, class of service, and the specific route. Hand luggage is typically limited to one piece weighing up to 7 kg. The maximum dimensions for a bag that can be taken into the cabin are approximately 55 x 38 x 22 cm. Passengers are also allowed to carry small personal items such as a laptop or a handbag.

Checked baggage allowances vary: for economy class, they often range from 20 to 30 kg, while business class passengers can carry up to 40 kg or two pieces of baggage at 23-32 kg each. On many international flights, a piece concept is applied, while on domestic flights, a weight system is used. Exact information is always specified in your e-ticket or itinerary receipt.

If your baggage exceeds the established limits, payment for excess weight will be required. Overweight rates depend on the destination and are calculated per extra kilogram or additional piece. Special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, or strollers are transported according to special rules, which are recommended to be clarified in advance with the support service.

For safety reasons, it is prohibited to transport explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials, and other dangerous goods in both checked and hand luggage. We recommend securely packing fragile items and using covers to protect suitcases from damage. Before departure, ensure that your baggage has a tag with your contact details.

Carriage of Animals in the Cabin and Baggage Compartment

Pakistan International allows the transportation of pets, such as cats and dogs, however, conditions depend on the aircraft type and the regulations of the destination country.

• In the cabin: The possibility of carrying animals directly in the cabin (cabin pets) is limited and requires mandatory prior approval. Most animals are transported as checked baggage or through the Cargo department.
• In the baggage compartment: Animals must be in special containers that meet IATA standards. The container must be rigid, ventilated, and spacious enough for the pet to stand and turn around.
• Required documents: The passenger is responsible for providing a valid veterinary passport, a vaccination certificate (including rabies), and all necessary import/export permits required at the points of departure and arrival.

Costs and Restrictions

Pet transportation is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid for as excess weight according to the airline's rates.

• Fares: The cost depends on the total weight of the animal together with the crate and the travel route.
• Breeds: Restrictions may apply to some brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs, Persian cats) during periods of extreme heat due to health risks.
• Preparation: It is recommended not to feed the animal several hours before departure and to ensure the presence of water in a special dispenser inside the container.

To clarify the possibility of transporting an animal on a specific flight and to book a space, you must contact a Pakistan International office at least 48-72 hours before departure.

Awards +Plus Loyalty Program

For frequent flyers, Pakistan International offers a loyalty program called Awards +Plus. It is designed to make every journey more rewarding by allowing members to accumulate bonus units for every flight taken.

Membership Levels and Privileges

• Basic Level: Assigned immediately after registration and allows you to start accumulating miles.
• Elite Statuses (Silver, Gold): Provide additional benefits such as priority registration, access to premium lounges, and an increased free baggage allowance.
• Earning Miles: The number of points depends on the flight distance, chosen class of service, and fare. More flexible fares earn more miles.

How to Use Your Accumulated Miles

Program members can spend their accumulated miles on various rewards that make flying more enjoyable:

• Award Tickets: The ability to fully or partially pay for a flight with miles on the airline's routes.
• Class Upgrades: Using miles to move from economy class to business class (Upgrade).
• Special Offers: Access to promotions and discounts from program partners, including hotels and car rental services.

Registration for Awards +Plus is free and available on the airline's official website. Since Pakistan International is not currently part of any global alliances, the accumulation and redemption of miles occurs primarily on the carrier's own flights.

In-flight service on Pakistan International is focused on providing maximum comfort in accordance with full-service carrier standards. Passengers are offered two main classes of service: Economy Class with ergonomic seats and Business Class, featuring increased privacy, improved dining, and additional space for work and relaxation. On long-haul flights operated on Boeing 777 aircraft, business class is equipped with seats that allow for a comfortable flight experience.

Onboard meals are free for all passengers and include hot dishes, snacks, and beverages. The menu is prepared according to traditions and is entirely Halal. Travelers can pre-order special menus, such as vegetarian, children's, or dietary meals, by contacting the airline when booking. The in-flight entertainment system (IFE) is available on most wide-body aircraft and offers a selection of movies, music, and programs on individual screens.

Special attention is given to special services. Families with children are provided with bassinets (on certain aircraft types) and staff assistance. For passengers with disabilities, airport escort and boarding assistance are provided. An unaccompanied minor service is also available for children traveling without parents. Please note that the availability of onboard Wi-Fi depends on the specific aircraft, so it is recommended to verify this option before departure.

Pakistan International connects Pakistani cities with major global metropolises across Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and North America. The main flow of flights passes through the airline's primary hub in Karachi, as well as through hub airports in Islamabad and Lahore.

The carrier's route network includes popular international destinations such as London, Paris, Dubai, and Toronto. Domestic flights allow travelers to easily reach significant locations such as Quetta, Sukkur, or the high-altitude resorts of Skardu. The flight geography is constantly adapted to seasonal demand, offering convenient connections for pilgrims and tourists.

To book Pakistan International tickets at the most favorable rates, it is recommended to plan your purchase in advance — ideally 2-3 months before departure. Often, the best prices are available for mid-week flights. You can book a ticket on the carrier's official website or through the PIA App mobile application, where exclusive fares and promotions are sometimes offered.

Online check-in usually opens 24 hours before the flight. We advise completing it as early as possible to secure the most comfortable seats in the cabin. During the booking or check-in phase, you can choose a standard seat for free or book "preferred" seats with extra legroom for an additional fee, which is especially relevant on long-haul flights to Toronto or London.

When choosing a fare, be sure to pay attention to the Fare Rules. Economy class offers different categories: from budget non-refundable to more flexible ones that allow you to change departure dates without high penalties. Also, do not forget about travel insurance — it will help avoid extra expenses in case of unexpected trip cancellations or health issues in another country.

The history of Pakistan International dates back to 1946 with the founding of Orient Airways in Calcutta. Following the partition of India and the formation of Pakistan, the company moved its base to Karachi and became a vital link in ensuring the transport connectivity of the new state. In 1955, a state carrier was established on its foundation under the current name, officially becoming the national flagship of Pakistan.

In the 1950s and 60s, the airline experienced a period of rapid growth, becoming one of the most progressive in the region. Pakistan International was the first Asian airline to operate Boeing 707 jet aircraft. During this period, the route network actively expanded westward, opening flights to London and other European capitals, as well as to the East.

Over the decades, the airline's fleet has evolved from piston aircraft to modern industry giants. Significant milestones included the acquisition of Boeing 747 and, later, Boeing 777 aircraft, which allowed for non-stop long-haul flights. The airline has always played a key role in pilgrimage transportation, providing reliable links to Saudi Arabian cities such as Jeddah and Medina.

The modern stage of the company's development is linked to major structural changes. By 2025, Pakistan International completed its privatization process, which was an important step toward attracting new investment and updating its corporate image. Today, despite the change in ownership form, the company maintains its status as the national carrier, continuing the traditions of Pakistani hospitality and implementing modern flight safety standards.