In a first, PIA allowed to operate direct flights to US

• PIA can now fly 12 direct flights in a month.

In a first, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has been allowed to operate direct flights to the United States.

Last week, PIA CEO Arshad Malik sought permission from US embassy in Islamabad to operate PIA special flights to repatriate Pakistanis stranded in the US due to coronavirus pandemic.

The US Transport Department has permitted the national carrier to operate direct flights to the US, local media reported. PIA can now fly 12 direct flights or  12 round-trips in a month, a notification said.