ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is likely to commence non-stop direct flights to Sydney, Australia, from April 22 during Eid holidays and arrangements are being made for the purpose.

Initially, one flight per week will be operated from Lahore to Sydney and later it will be increased to two flights.

This was announced by PIA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Air Marshal Arshad Malik at a meeting with Australian Deputy High Commissioner Joanne Frederiksen in Islamabad.

Air Marshal Malik thanked Ms Joanne Frederiksen for her efforts and the Australian government’s support in this regard.

The direct non-stop flights between the two countries would enhance friendly relations between the two countries, he said.

Further, the Airlines on Monday announced significantly reduced fares for Umrah pilgrims.

According to the announcement of a reduction in fares, PIA has fixed the fare of Madinah and Jeddah at Rs 95,628.

Fares for flights from PK 9759 Lahore to Jeddah, PK 9741 from Islamabad to Jeddah have been reduced while PK 9731 from Karachi to Jeddah, PK 9735 from Peshawar to Jeddah have also been reduced by Rs 5,000.