PIA to resume Islamabad-Beijing flights from July 3

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will resume direct flights between Islamabad and Beijing from July 3, 2026, restoring an air link between Pakistan and China after suspending the service in April amid higher jet fuel prices.

The Islamabad-Beijing-Islamabad service is expected to meet travel demand from students, business professionals, tourists and families travelling between the two countries.

PIA said the direct route would reduce journey times compared with connecting flights and offer passengers competitive fares and baggage allowances.

The restored service is also expected to facilitate travel by students, academics and researchers and support educational exchanges between Pakistan and China.

Tourists and families planning summer travel will also have a direct option between the two capitals.

Travel agencies and tourism operators have reported passenger interest following the announcement, reflecting demand for direct connectivity on the route.

PIA management said the airline remained committed to strengthening bilateral air links and supporting cooperation in trade, tourism, education and cultural exchanges.

The airline said the resumption of the route would also support people-to-people contact between Pakistan and China.

PIA had announced on April 7, 2026, that it was suspending or reducing flights to Beijing, Kuala Lumpur and destinations in the Middle East because of higher jet fuel costs.

At the time, jet fuel prices had increased from between $85 and $90 per barrel to between $150 and $200 per barrel.

Fuel accounts for up to one-quarter of airline operating expenses, making the price increase a significant cost pressure for carriers.