Travel between Pakistan and Iran is about to get a little easier. Iran Air has confirmed that it will begin direct passenger flights between Mashhad and Lahore starting October 29. For now, the airline plans to operate one flight a week on this route.
The major aim of the move is to make travel more convenient for the masses on both sides of the border — especially pilgrims, traders, and families who often travel between the two countries.
Many passengers currently have to rely on connecting flights or long road trips, which can be tiring and expensive. A nonstop connection will cut down travel time and eliminate unnecessary layovers.
Officials familiar with the development claimed the decision is considered to be a part of an effort to strengthen people-to-people ties and improve regional connectivity. Mashhad is one of the most visited spiritual destinations in the Muslim world, while Lahore is assumed to be a major cultural and commercial hub in Pakistan.
Read more: New Pak-Iran border crossing opens in Panjgur area of Balochistan
A direct link between the two cities is anticipated to provide benefits not only individual travelers but also tour operators and small businesses.
For those unfamiliar, Iran Air is the national airline of Iran and one of the oldest carriers in the region. It was established in 1944 and is highly famous for its signature Homa bird logo. The airline operates from its main hub at Imam Khomeini International Airport in Tehran, with flights across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
While the launch is restricted to a single weekly flight for now, aviation observers believe that more routes or increased frequency could follow if demand grows. If the Mashhad–Lahore service performs well, cities like Karachi, Islamabad, or even Tehran could be added to the schedule in the future.
All-inclusively, the new route may seem small, but it’s a meaningful step toward easier travel, cultural exchange and economic cooperation between the two neighboring countries.