QUETTA: A new era of international connectivity began at Quetta International Airport as the first direct flight between Quetta and Zahedan was officially launched on Thursday night. The ceremony marked a major milestone in strengthening regional air links between Pakistan and Iran.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Governor Balochistan said the new connection will pave the way for expanding flight operations further to Turkey and Central Asia. “Pakistan and Iran are two powerful Muslim nations of the region — one defeated India, and the other humbled Israel,” he remarked, highlighting the growing cooperation between the two countries.
The event was attended by Iranian Consul General Mohammad Karimi Toudeshki, Provincial Health Minister Bakht Mohammad Kakar, Parliamentary Secretary Haji Barkat Rind, Rabia Khwaja Khail, and representatives of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce.
The Governor recalled that earlier this year, he had inaugurated a special Umrah flight from Quetta to Saudi Arabia, and now the Quetta–Zahedan route marks another historic step toward international connectivity. “These new flights will promote regional connectivity, trade, and tourism. My vision is to expand Quetta’s air network to more countries so that people of Balochistan can enjoy convenient and affordable air travel,” he said.
He added that the launch of direct flights between Quetta and Zahedan will greatly benefit pilgrims and travelers who previously relied on land routes to reach Iran and Iraq. “This initiative solves a long-standing problem. From now on, citizens will have better access to air travel facilities,” he said.
The weekly flights will serve not only pilgrims but also Pakistani nationals living in Iran, providing them with a faster and safer travel option.
The ceremony concluded with a formal dinner in honour of the distinguished guests.
In August, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested a man at Quetta Airport on Wednesday as he attempted to flee abroad, after committing several crimes in Punjab province.
According to details, the arrested suspect was wanted to Punjab police as several cases were registered against him in different police stations.
