RECORDER REPORT

LAHORE: British Airways (BA)’s first flight landed at Allama Iqbal International Airport here on Tuesday.

The airport manager, CAA high officials and British diplomatic staff welcomed the passengers at the Lahore airport. To celebrate the resumption of the flight, the Allama Iqbal International Airport was decorated with balloons and welcome banners, and a cake-cutting ceremony was held in the CIP lounge.

In this connection, British Deputy High Commissioner to Pakistan Alison Blackburne said that she is delighted to welcome the first ever British Airways flight to Lahore. “The first of many, this new direct flight will allow thousands of people who travel between our two great nations to visit friends and family, and support increased trade links. Indeed, this is a sign of confidence in Pakistan and the best of UK-Pak friendship,” she added.

Sohail Ali, BA Senior Vice President, Middle East and Africa, said that it gives him great pleasure to welcome their first flight to Lahore today. “We are delighted to start direct flights four times a week offering seamless travel options from Lahore to London, Manchester and the US,” he added. “Following the re-launch of services from Islamabad to Heathrow earlier this year, this new flight from Lahore reinforces our commitment to Pakistan and will help boost travel, tourism and trade between the two countries.”

As per the British Airways’ spokesperson, Lahore is connected to London Heathrow and the new service will offer seamless transfer options from London Heathrow to Manchester, the United States and Canada.