Key Points
• Exporters can ship goods using a single air waybill across both carriers
• Key destinations include Europe, the United States, and the Middle East
• Partnership expected to improve trade efficiency and access to global markets
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines has signed a strategic cargo agreement with Air France–KLM to expand the global reach of Pakistani exports, enabling shippers to move goods across both carriers’ networks using a single air waybill and improving access to key markets in Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.
The agreement, which took effect on January 15, integrates Pakistan International Airlines’ cargo operations with Air France–KLM’s global network, allowing exporters to use a single air waybill to ship goods across both carriers.
Major European hubs include Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, and Düsseldorf, while U.S. destinations include New York, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. Middle Eastern connections include Dubai, Riyadh, and Dammam.
A spokesperson for Pakistan International Airlines said the partnership will simplify logistics, reduce operational complexity, and allow exporters wider access to international markets. Cargo from Pakistan can transit through regional hubs to seamlessly connect with the Air France–KLM network.
The deal coincides with Pakistan International Airlines progressing on a partial divestment of the national carrier, a government-led effort to attract private investment, boost operational efficiency, and strengthen its global competitiveness. Experts suggest that such international partnerships are likely to bolster the airline’s commercial viability and help grow its cargo business as part of wider restructuring initiatives.
The airline described the agreement as a “major milestone” in expanding its cargo capabilities and global reach, and said it will help Pakistani exporters access international markets more efficiently.
