Another new airline, Riyadh Air, has officially launched its operations in Pakistan, with its inaugural flight from Riyadh arriving at Islamabad International Airport on Friday evening with passengers.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Saudi ambassador highlighted the significance of the new service in further strengthening the longstanding ties and air connectivity between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Riyadh Air Begins Pakistan Operations.
— Pakistan Airports Authority (@Pk_PAA_Official) August 14, 2026
Riyadh Air has commenced operations in Pakistan today with inaugural flight RX-660 arriving at Islamabad International Airport from Riyadh. pic.twitter.com/BKQPjAsr3m
According to the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), Riyadh Air is expected to operate seven flights a week between Riyadh and Islamabad.
Riyadh Air operated its first commercial flight on October 26, 2025.
A direct flight from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia takes about 5 to 6 hours, depending on your departure city and destination (like Jeddah or Riyadh). The distance is roughly 2,500 to 3,000 kilometers.
Another airline, British Airways, also operates direct flights between Islamabad International Airport (ISB) and London, with flights typically arriving at London Heathrow or Gatwick. The journey takes approximately eight hours, depending on the route and operating conditions. Passengers can check schedules and book tickets through British Airways.