Direct Flight Between Quetta and Zahedan Marks New Era of Air Connectivity Between Pakistan and Iran

Quetta: A new chapter in international air travel has begun at **Quetta International Airport** with the launch of **direct flights between Quetta and Zahedan**, connecting Pakistan and Iran by air for the first time.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony, **Governor Balochistan Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail** said that this new air route could pave the way for expanding flight operations to **Turkey and Central Asian countries** in the future.

He emphasized that **Pakistan and Iran are two strong Muslim nations in the region**, noting that one had defeated India and the other Israel, adding that the two countries share historical, cultural, and religious ties.

Governor Mandokhail recalled that **Umrah flights to Saudi Arabia** were recently launched from Quetta and described the **Zahedan-to-Quetta flight** as a positive step toward **enhancing regional connectivity**. He expressed his desire to further expand Quetta’s international air network to facilitate the people of Balochistan with **affordable and accessible air travel options**, transforming Quetta into a **hub of trade, tourism, and economic activity**.

He further stated that the launch of the special **Zahedan–Quetta flight** would greatly benefit **pilgrims and travelers**, offering relief from the difficulties of long overland journeys to Iran and Iraq.

The event was attended by **Iranian Consul General Mohammad Karimi Todashki**, **Provincial Health Minister Bakht Muhammad Kakar**, **Parliamentary Secretary Haji Barkat Rind**, **Rabia Khawaja Khail**, and representatives of the **Quetta Chamber of Commerce**. The ceremony concluded with a **formal dinner** in honor of the distinguished guests.