Fly Jinnah, Pakistan’s leading low-cost airline, celebrated its first flight from Lahore to Dammam on Sunday, bolstering air connectivity between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia amid increasing demand for international travel.
Established in 2021 as a joint venture between Pakistan’s Lakson Group and the UAE’s Air Arabia Group, Fly Jinnah launched domestic operations in October 2022, linking key cities such as Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta.
Expansion to International Routes
The airline ventured into international travel in February 2024 with its first route from Islamabad to Sharjah, later adding flights to Riyadh and Jeddah. The new Lahore-Dammam route marks another significant milestone, connecting Pakistan with a region home to a large Pakistani expatriate community.
“We are happy to celebrate our inaugural flight from Lahore to Dammam, further enhancing connectivity between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia for our passengers,” the airline said in a social media post.
The addition of Dammam, a key city in Saudi Arabia’s oil-rich Eastern Province, aligns with Fly Jinnah’s strategy to target the lucrative Middle Eastern market, catering to Pakistani travelers seeking affordable options for work, family visits, and religious pilgrimages.
Competing in a Challenging Market
The expansion comes as Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the national carrier, grapples with financial struggles and privatization plans. Fly Jinnah is poised to fill the gap with competitive pricing and a growing network, offering Pakistani travelers more choices.
With direct, affordable flights, Fly Jinnah positions itself as a strong competitor in connecting Pakistan to Saudi Arabia—a key destination for religious pilgrims and a workforce exceeding 2.7 million Pakistanis.
As the airline continues to expand its reach, it is playing a vital role in strengthening ties and facilitating travel between the two nations.
