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Dhaka: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has signed a strategic cargo partnership with Air France–KLM, with an aim to significantly expand the Pakistani national carrier’s global freight footprint following its recent privatization and restructuring.
Under the agreement, effective January 15, PIA Cargo gains access to the Air France–KLM worldwide cargo network. The arrangement allows Pakistani exporters to move shipments across Europe and the United States using a single airway bill covering both airline systems.
In addition to cargo connectivity via regional hubs, including Dubai, Riyadh, and Dammam, the partnership enables onward access to key destinations such as Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.
Officials said the collaboration will strengthen Pakistan’s trade and logistics ecosystem, particularly for time-sensitive and high-value exports requiring seamless global reach.
The development follows the resumption of direct Islamabad–Paris flights, which have been operating twice weekly since January 10, restoring a key European link for the carrier.
PIA’s cargo expansion comes after Arif Habib Consortium acquired a 75% stake through a competitive bidding process to complete its privatization.
With the renewed European routes, in addition to an expanded cargo network and private-sector management, PIA aims to rebuild its global presence and support Pakistan’s trade connectivity with major international markets.
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