Pakistan Airlines Holds Record for Fastest Flight in the World for 63 Years

Pakistan International Airlines (PK) has been a pioneering force in South Asian aviation since its founding in 1954. The airline once led innovation and set global records, but now faces mounting challenges.

Operating out of key hubs including Karachi (KHI), Lahore (LHE), and Islamabad (ISB), PIA is undergoing major restructuring amid a renewed privatisation push by the Pakistani government.

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Photo: By RuthAS – Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29665996

Pakistan Airlines World Record

Pakistan International Airlines (PK), formed after the nationalisation of Orient Airways, rapidly became a regional trailblazer. In 1960, it introduced the Boeing 707, becoming the first Asian airline to operate jet aircraft—marking a significant leap into the jet age, Gulf News reported.

Just two years later, a PIA Boeing 720 made history by flying non-stop from London Heathrow (LHR) to Karachi (KHI) in 6 hours, 43 minutes, and 51 seconds.

Piloted by Captain Abdullah Baig, the flight set a world speed record for commercial airliners with an average speed of 582.98 mph (938.21 km/h)—a record that still stands.

In 1955, PIA inaugurated its first international service to London (LHR). Then, in 1964, it became the first non-Communist airline to fly to China, connecting Karachi (KHI) with Shanghai amid Cold War tensions.

PIA’s expansion soon spanned over 100 global destinations, including major cities in Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia.

Photo: By Shadman Samee from Dhaka, Bangladesh – AP-BLD: PIA A320 at DAC, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=90552601

Major Milestones and Global Contributions

Beyond commercial operations, PIA made pivotal contributions to international aviation:

• Helped Launch Emirates (EK): In 1985, PIA assisted the UAE in establishing Emirates Airlines, providing technical and operational support.
• Launch Customer of Boeing 777-200LR (2004): The airline took delivery of the ultra-long-range aircraft designed for non-stop intercontinental routes.
• Longest Nonstop Commercial Flight (2005): PIA operated a record-setting flight from Hong Kong (HKG) to London Heathrow (LHR), covering roughly 8,500 miles without stopping.
• Cultural Representation: The airline promoted Pakistani identity globally through tailored menus, branding, and onboard hospitality.
• Early Adoption of In-Flight Entertainment: PIA was one of the first in South Asia to introduce in-flight entertainment, ahead of industry standards.

Photo: Aero Icarus | Flickr

Current Fleet and Network Reach

Today, PIA operates a fleet of 32 aircraft, including Airbus A320s and Boeing 777 variants. It maintains hub operations at Karachi (KHI), Islamabad (ISB), and Lahore (LHE). While international bans have limited its reach, PIA continues to serve key cities such as:

• Dubai (DXB)
• Kuala Lumpur (KUL)
• Istanbul (IST)
• Toronto (YYZ)

Despite setbacks, the airline remains critical for diaspora connectivity and regional operations.

Since the 2000s, PIA has faced serious financial mismanagement, operational inefficiencies, and safety lapses. A major blow came in 2020, when regulatory bodies in the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States imposed bans following a pilot licensing scandal and safety audit failures.

These restrictions severely cut down international routes and dented public confidence. The airline has since operated under stringent oversight and reduced frequencies.

Photo: By Magic Aviation – Boeing 777-240/ER Pakistan International Airlines PIA AP-BHXUploaded by Dura-Ace, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24910086

Government-Led Privatisation and Revival Plans

Amid growing fiscal pressure, the Pakistani government has relaunched its privatisation efforts, aiming to offload PIA’s liabilities and attract qualified buyers.

As of mid-2025, four bidders have passed the initial vetting phase, indicating real interest in restructuring the airline.

The government views privatisation as a necessary step to modernise PIA, improve service quality, and restore international credibility.

ALSO READ: Pakistan Airlines Records Profit After 21 Years, Seek Privatization Plans

Photo: By Anna Zvereva from Tallinn, Estonia – Pakistan International Airlines, AP-BGJ, Boeing 777-240 ER, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=72241859

Top 10 PIA Aviation Records and Contributions

First Asian Jet Operator (1960) – Boeing 707 introduction.

1. World Speed Record (1962) – London to Karachi on Boeing 720.
2. First Non-Communist Airline to China (1964).
3. Global Reach – 100+ destinations at its peak.
4. Helped Launch Emirates (1985).
5. Launch Customer of Boeing 777-200LR (2004).
6. Longest Nonstop Flight (2005) – Hong Kong to London.
7. Cultural Branding – Promoting Pakistan globally.
8. PIA Training Academy – Enhanced aviation education regionally.
9. In-Flight Entertainment Pioneer – Early adopter in South Asia.

While the road ahead remains uncertain, PIA’s legacy offers a foundation for renewal. With proper oversight, strategic partnerships, and committed leadership, Pakistan’s national carrier could once again reclaim its place in global aviation.

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