ISLAMABAD: Iran Air has launched its first-ever direct flight service connecting Quetta, Zahedan and Mashhad, marking the start of scheduled commercial air operations between the three cities.
In a statement, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Mohammad Mudassir Tipu, welcomed the development, describing it as the fulfilment of a long-standing demand of communities in the border region.
“I am absolutely delighted that Iran Air has started direct Quetta–Zahedan–Mashhad flights, linking three historic cities with enormous potential. These new operations will boost business, tourism, and people-to-people ties,” Tipu said.
He added that, given the geographical proximity and economic needs of both countries, efforts would continue to further expand air connectivity between Pakistan and Iran.
I am absolutely delighted that Iran Air has started direct Quetta-Zahidan-Mashhad flights ,linking three historic cities with enormous potential. This was a long-standing demand of people in these cities, and new flight operations will boost business, tourism & people-to-people…
— Ambassador Mudassir (@AmbMudassir) August 10, 2025
The inaugural flight, operated by an Airbus A319, landed at Quetta International Airport on Friday. Iran Air will initially operate one weekly service between Quetta and Zahedan, with the route extending to Mashhad.
A ceremony was held at Quetta airport to mark the occasion, attended by officials and dignitaries from both countries.
The launch comes amid recent travel policy changes for Pakistani pilgrims.
Last month, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced that, due to security concerns, pilgrims would not be allowed to travel to Iran or Iraq by road for this year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage.
Posting on his official X account, Naqvi said the decision followed detailed consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Balochistan government, and security agencies.
After extensive consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Balochistan Government, and security agencies, it has been decided that Zaireen will not be allowed to travel to Iraq and Iran by road for Arbaeen this year. This difficult decision was taken in the interest of…
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) July 27, 2025
Iran Air’s new service will facilitate greater cultural, religious and commercial exchanges between Pakistan and Iran, enhancing regional connectivity in line with long-standing bilateral objectives.
