First Lahore-Urumqi resumption flight takes off

In a post-pandemic development, first direct flight has finally been resumed from Lahore to Urumqi after airplane of China Southern Airline took off from Allama Iqbal International Airport on 9:50 am in the morning on June 13 (Tuesday).

The Urumqi-Lahore route was suspended on January 24, 2020 in the wake of Covid-19 curbs on aviation sector. The activity marked a watershed moment of resumption of flight after more than 3 years from capital of Punjab (Pakistan) to capital of Xinjiang (China). The flights are scheduled on a weekly basis, specifically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

In order to celebrate the 1st Lahore-Urumqi resumption flight, a special cake-cutting ceremony was held at Allama Iqbal International Airport. Chinese Consul General Lahore Zhao Shiren cut the festive cake in the presence of dignitaries including Ms. Zhang Xingru, G. M of Lahore Office, China Southern Airlines, Nazir Ahmed Khan, COO of Allama Iqbal International Airport, Muhammad Rashid, Additional Director of Airport Security, Safdar Wattoo, Additional Director Special Protection Unit and Chinese diplomats.

Speaking on the occasion, Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren said that after more than three-year suspension due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the inaugural passenger aircraft of the China Southern Airlines has arrived at Allama Iqbal Intl and begun its resumption flight from Lahore to Urumqi.

“It is a big event, and it is also a good news for all,” he added.  “Lahore, as well as the Punjab at large, plays a very significant role in Pakistan, in terms of the population, economic output and cultural heritage. It has built up a strong partnership and close cooperation with areas and regions of China. Therefore, the direct flight operation is the need of the hour, and will inject a new momentum to further strengthening people-to-people exchanges, trade and investment, between China and the Punjab,” he added

He went off saying that “It will also facilitate the business tour for the traders, travelers, students and tourists of both sides by providing them time-saving and cost-effective flight services.” 

There are tremendous market potentials in Punjab, he said and added that he is confident that, with the resumption of the operations, more Lahorites and Punjabis will take the flight for China. So, welcome aboard. The Consulate General is ready to do its best to accommodate in this regard, he asserted.

He hailed festive celebrations of the resumption of direct flights between Urumqi and Lahore. He gave a big round of applause to the tiring efforts of China Southern Airlines, and Ms Zhang in particular, for her expeditious efforts in doing this event. He also paid homage to Airport authority, civil aviation authority, Airport security, the SPU and all the relevant stakeholders for making this happen.    

“I hope there will be more direct flights between Lahore and the Chinese cities in the near future. I wish China Southern Airlines’ noble endeavor a great success. I wish each and every one of you present here today in best health and high spirits,” he concluded.   

When contacted Gwadar Pro, China Southern Airline official statement revealed that the reopening of the Urumqi-Lahore route will help to strengthen the connection and cooperation between China and Pakistan and facilitate the exchange and interaction between two peoples. Furthermore the resumption of flights will also promote cooperation in economic, cultural and other aspects between two regions, which is beneficial for the local residents and business community and has a positive significance.

Various organizations, including the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, traders’ bodies, and associations, warmly welcomed the resumption of flights.

They expressed that Lahore, as an emerging economic hub in Punjab, deserves to be a prime destination for China Southern Airlines.

Iqbal Haider, a Lahore-based electronic trader gave a big shootout to the upcoming development. “It will save our time, travelling budget and energy,” he said.