Direct flights initiated by Iran from Quetta
In August 2025, Iran Air made history by launching the first scheduled commercial air link between Quetta, Zahedan, and Mashhad [1][2][3]. This significant milestone marks a new era in regional air connectivity.
The inaugural flight, operated on Friday, connects three historic cities for the first time, underscoring the historic and cultural ties between the border regions of Pakistan and Iran [1][3]. The service facilitates easier and faster movement between southeastern Pakistan and eastern Iran, especially linking the Baloch people and facilitating the traditional pilgrimage route to Mashhad, a major religious center for Shia Muslims [1][3][4].
Pakistan's Ambassador to Iran, Mohammad Mudassir Tipu, expressed delight over the start of direct Quetta-Zahedan-Mashhad flights, believing that the new operations will boost business, tourism, and people-to-people ties [1]. He stated that given the geography and economic needs, air connectivity between Pakistan and Iran will continue to expand [5].
The direct flight is expected to stimulate trade and economic interaction by reducing travel time and logistical barriers for traders and businessmen operating between Quetta and Iranian cities [1][2]. Zahedan, close to the border, is a trade hub, while Mashhad is an economic and religious center. Easier access to Mashhad will encourage religious tourism from Pakistan, particularly the large Shia population. It will also promote general tourism and cultural exchanges [1][3].
This service strengthens social and cultural linkages by facilitating visits for families, pilgrims, students, and professionals, fostering mutual understanding and friendships among the peoples of Pakistan and Iran, especially in neighboring provinces [1][4].
It's important to note that the Arbaeen pilgrimage, a significant religious event in the Islamic calendar, is not affected by the new direct flights between Quetta, Zahedan, and Mashhad [6]. However, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced last month that Pakistani pilgrims would not be allowed to travel to Iran or Iraq by road for this year's Arbaeen pilgrimage due to security concerns [7]. The decision was made after detailed consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Balochistan government, and security agencies.
The maiden flight of Iran Air's direct service between Quetta and Zahedan landed at Quetta International Airport on Friday, marking a new chapter in the relationship between Pakistan and Iran. A ceremony was held at the airport to celebrate this momentous occasion [8].
[1] https://www.dawn.com/news/1665337 [2] https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/853659-iran-air-launches-direct-flights-to-quetta-and-mashhad [3] https://www.geo.tv/latest/391489-iran-air-launches-flights-to-quetta-and-mashhad [4] https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2025/08/14/iraan-air-launches-flights-to-quetta-and-mashhad/ [5] https://www.geo.tv/latest/391489-iran-air-launches-flights-to-quetta-and-mashhad [6] https://www.geo.tv/latest/391489-iran-air-launches-flights-to-quetta-and-mashhad [7] https://www.dawn.com/news/1664946 [8] https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/853659-iran-air-launches-direct-flights-to-quetta-and-mashhad
The direct flights operated by Iran Air between Quetta, Zahedan, and Mashhad have the potential to stimulate business, as expressed by Pakistan's Ambassador to Iran, especially within the realm of trade and economic interaction [1][2]. This new air service might also foster lifestyle changes by encouraging travel for tourism and cultural exchanges, as Zahedan's proximity to the border and Mashhad's standing as an economic and religious center make them attractive destinations [1][3].
