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Direct flights from Quetta approved to facilitate Arbaeen pilgrims: Khawaja Asif

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The federal government has authorized the Balochistan government to operate direct flights from Quetta to facilitate Shia pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq for Arbaeen, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told the National Assembly on Tuesday.

“To mitigate these risks, the federal government authorized the Balochistan government to operate direct flights from Quetta,” he said, “allowing pilgrims to travel safely by air to their destinations”.

He informed the House that overland travel along the 800-kilometre route from Quetta had been restricted due to serious security concerns, particularly the threat of terrorist attacks targeting pilgrim convoys.

Asif said one such flight has already been launched and the government is vying for either two flights daily or at least one regular service to meet growing demand. He said arrangements have also been made for onward transportation from airports in Iran and Iraq to the pilgrims’ intended sites.

The minister added that advertisements were issued over the past four days inviting private airlines to operate on the route, and that all licensed carriers have been granted permission. Chartered flights have also been approved to maximize safe travel capacity.

Read: Six MPAs arrested in Punjab as PTI launches ‘nationwide’ protest

“These measures are aimed at offering maximum facilities while avoiding the security hazards of road travel,” he said, urging potential operators and the market to take full advantage of the permissions granted.

He said the matter had also been discussed during the recent visit of the Iranian president to Pakistan, after which Iran had allowed an additional flight to support the movement of Pakistani pilgrims.

“I want to assure the House and the people across Pakistan that the government is fully committed to ensuring safe, comfortable, and timely transportation for all Arbaeen pilgrims,” he added.

Resolution on Youm-e-Istehsal

The National Assembly unanimously passed a resolution to mark Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir (Kashmir Exploitation Day), condemning India’s actions in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), amid heated protests and sloganeering by opposition members.

During the session, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, on a point of order, said, “today is being observed as Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir, but you are observing Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Imran (Imran Exploitation Day).”

He added that the latter “could have been observed on another day.”

Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said the opposition had an equal role in upholding the dignity and smooth functioning of the House. The opposition staged a protest over not being allowed to speak.

“The Prime Minister went to the opposition leader’s seat and said, ‘come, let’s talk’.”

He claimed that under the guise of peaceful protest, armed groups had launched attacks. He questioned whether the Kashmir day or PTI’s exploitation narrative was more important, prompting another round of opposition uproar.

Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq urged calm and requested the House to allow Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam to present a resolution on Kashmir first. Muqam appealed to the opposition to permit passage of the resolution, assuring them they could protest afterward. The opposition paused their protest to allow the resolution.

Amir Muqam, presenting the resolution, said India continues to unleash atrocities on the Kashmiri people. “India unilaterally and illegally abrogated Articles 370 and 35A,” he said, adding that thousands of youth had been martyred, children orphaned, and women widowed.

Read more: Six MPAs arrested in Punjab as PTI launches ‘nationwide’ protest

“Despite these atrocities, the love for Pakistan in the hearts of Kashmiris has not diminished,” he said.

The resolution, moved by Muqam, condemned India’s actions of August 5, 2019, termed them a violation of the Geneva Conventions, and denounced Indian statements regarding Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. It called for the implementation of UN resolutions and demanded access for UN observers to IIOJK.

Later in the session, PTI MNA Aamir Dogar criticized the government, saying, “You have sentenced our members to ten years each.”

He added, “if everyone is thrown out, what kind of House is this?” and claimed that ten MNAs were “lifted” from the House without any action from the Speaker. Speaker Ayaz Sadiq responded by asking, “Did I not issue production orders?”

Dogar claimed that Sheikh Waqas Akram’s applications had been submitted to the Speaker’s office.

“You subjected MNAs to political victimization,” he said. “The PTI founder is in jail because he refused to bow down. Had he bowed, he would’ve been in this House,” he said. “If all of this is to be done, then lock down the House.”

 





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Royal Air Maroc Sets New Milestone In Global Aviation With Major Expansion Of Its Network, Introducing New Direct Flights To Key European And African Destinations

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August 6, 2025

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Home » AFRICA » Royal Air Maroc Sets New Milestone In Global Aviation With Major Expansion Of Its Network, Introducing New Direct Flights To Key European And African Destinations

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is setting a new milestone in global aviation with a bold expansion of its network, launching direct flights to several key European and African destinations. This strategic move is aimed at strengthening the airline’s position as a major player in the international travel market. By introducing new routes starting in September, RAM is not only enhancing its connectivity from its Casablanca hub but also responding to growing demand for seamless travel between continents. These additions will significantly improve access to key cities in Europe and Africa, offering more convenient options for both business and leisure travelers while reinforcing Royal Air Maroc’s commitment to delivering world-class service and connectivity.

Royal Air Maroc Expands Global Network with New Routes and Increased Frequencies

Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is set to significantly enhance its global network by expanding its operations from its Casablanca hub. With the launch of four new destinations starting in September, RAM is positioning itself as a key player in global air travel, with a focus on connecting key cities across Europe, Africa, and beyond. These strategic moves reflect the airline’s commitment to meeting growing demand while strengthening its connectivity for passengers traveling across continents.

New International Routes from Casablanca

Starting September 17, Royal Air Maroc will begin flights to Zurich, marking the first of its four new destinations. The airline will offer two flights per week on this route, providing convenient connections between Morocco and Switzerland. Zurich, known for its global financial sector and tourism attractions, will now be more accessible to Moroccan travelers and vice versa.

On the same day, RAM will also launch a new route to Ndjamena, the capital of Chad, expanding its African network. With two weekly departures, this new service is particularly tailored for business travelers and those looking to explore the region. The evening departures from Casablanca will help passengers traveling from Europe or North Africa to connect smoothly. On the return, flights will depart from Ndjamena early in the morning, ensuring that passengers can catch onward connections to Europe through Casablanca, thus maximizing convenience.

The expansion continues on September 18, with RAM offering two weekly flights to Sal Island, Cape Verde. This destination promises to cater to both leisure and business travelers, with late-night departures from Casablanca, ensuring ease of transfer to connecting flights. The return flights will take off in the early morning hours, again designed to optimize passenger connections with European flights.

Finally, starting on October 20, Royal Air Maroc will introduce a new service to Munich, Germany. This city is a key destination for business and tourism, and RAM will offer two weekly flights, further enhancing the airline’s European presence. Munich’s central location in Europe makes it an attractive hub for international travelers looking to connect to other parts of the continent.

Strengthening Connections to France

As part of its ongoing efforts to improve its services, Royal Air Maroc is also focusing on bolstering its connectivity between Morocco and France, one of its largest international markets. France remains the leading European source of visitors to Morocco, contributing 27.5% of all international arrivals in the past year. Recognizing the importance of this market, RAM is reintroducing several routes that were suspended in recent years.

On October 10, RAM will resume flights from Marrakech to Lyon and Toulouse. This marks a significant return to these French cities, which have long been popular with Moroccan travelers. Following this, on October 11, the airline will re-launch its Marrakech-Nantes route, and on October 12, services to Bordeaux will also be reinstated. These routes were previously suspended in 2017 and 2022, but RAM’s renewed commitment to France underscores the growing demand for direct connections between Morocco and France.

Each of these routes will operate two weekly flights, with RAM using its Boeing 737-800 aircraft to serve them. These flights will provide reliable and comfortable connections for travelers between Morocco and some of France’s most sought-after regions.

Increased Frequencies and Daily Paris Flights

In addition to the reintroduced routes, Royal Air Maroc will further enhance its service to France by increasing the frequency of flights to Marseilles. Starting October 27, RAM will add a third weekly flight between Marrakech and Marseilles, providing even more flexibility for travelers looking to visit southern France.

To further bolster its ties with France, RAM will offer a daily service between Marrakech and Paris Charles de Gaulle airport during the peak winter season. From December 16 to January 18, 2026, the airline will provide daily flights between the two cities, ensuring that passengers can travel between Morocco and France with ease. This increased frequency will undoubtedly appeal to both tourists and business travelers, as well as the Moroccan diaspora in France.

Conclusion

Royal Air Maroc is reaching a major milestone in global aviation by expanding its network with new direct flights to key European and African destinations. Starting in September, the airline will introduce four new routes from Casablanca, enhancing global connectivity and offering more convenient travel options between continents.



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Weather Alert Bengaluru: Flights Delayed, Diverted as Heavy Rain Hits KIA – Deccan Herald

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Weather Alert Bengaluru: Flights Delayed, Diverted as Heavy Rain Hits KIA  Deccan Herald



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Cathay Pacific Joins Emirates and Qatar to Boost European Connectivity, Resumes Hong Kong-Brussels Flights: Here’s What You Need To Know

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August 6, 2025

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Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Cathay Pacific Joins Emirates and Qatar to Boost European Connectivity, Resumes Hong Kong-Brussels Flights: Here’s What You Need To Know

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Cathay Pacific has made a significant return to Europe by resuming flights between Hong Kong and Brussels. The Hong Kong-based airline has reintroduced the route after a hiatus since 2020. This move is part of Cathay Pacific’s broader strategy to expand its European network and strengthen its position in the international aviation market.

The airline has resumed operations on the Hong Kong to Brussels route four times a week using the latest Airbus A350-900 aircraft. These modern planes feature a business, premium economy, and economy class, catering to all travelers. This isn’t just a win for the airline—this flight is a key link for travelers connecting these important global centers.

Increased European Flights: Connecting Key Destinations

The restart of the Hong Kong-Brussels flights comes as part of Cathay Pacific’s plan to expand its services across Europe. The airline is operating nearly 100 weekly flights to various European destinations this summer. Cities like Rome and Munich have already been added to the airline’s flight map, increasing the airline’s ability to cater to growing demand from both business and leisure travelers.

The Rebuilding of Cathay Pacific’s Long-Haul Network

As a result of the global pandemic, the aviation industry suffered a major setback. Cathay pacific has been fervently focused on restoring services in their long-haul network. During the pandemic, travel demand decreased, but now the airline has new routes to offer. With the resuming of flights to Brussels, Cathay pacific is able to gain access back to one of the major cities in Europe which is also a political hub and historical site.

The airline’s efforts are part of a larger strategy to offer greater choice to European travelers, whether for business or tourism. As Lavinia Lau, Cathay Pacific’s chief customer and commercial officer, highlighted, the airline’s return to Brussels helps connect Hong Kong directly to one of Europe’s key political and cultural centers.

New Airbus A350-900 Aircraft Enhances Travel Experience

Traveling from Hong Kong to Brussels? You’ll be flying in style on the sleek Airbus A350-900. Cathay Pacific’s A350-900 model is equipped with modern features that ensure both business and premium economy as well as economy class travelers experience enhanced comfort during the flight. Passengers benefit from the aircraft’s fuel-efficient features and quieter engines as well as A350-900’s advanced technology which ensures a smooth journey.

The business class offers spacious seating with direct aisle access, ensuring a relaxing long-haul experience. Premium economy and economy passengers will also find more room and better in-flight entertainment options. This is part of Cathay Pacific’s commitment to enhancing its passengers’ travel experiences, ensuring each flight is as pleasant and convenient as possible.

Cathay Pacific’s Commitment to European Connectivity

Cathay Pacific’s decision to resume the Hong Kong-Brussels route highlights the airline’s commitment to improving European connectivity. The airline’s European offerings have grown substantially, with daily flights from major cities like London, Amsterdam, and Paris. The new flights to Brussels are expected to attract both business travelers and tourists seeking easy access to the European continent’s political and cultural heart.

In addition to the Hong Kong-Brussels flights, Cathay Pacific has also introduced new routes to other European destinations such as Munich and Rome. The airline’s goal is to increase its reach in key markets, offering customers more flight options to and from Europe.

Key Cities in Europe Now Linked Directly to Hong Kong

The resumption of the Hong Kong-Brussels flights is a significant milestone for Cathay Pacific. Brussels is now added to the airline’s growing list of direct European connections. Travelers from Brussels will now be able to enjoy direct flights to Hong Kong, making it easier to connect with Asia and beyond.

Besides Brussels, Cathay Pacific has established daily services to major cities like London, Frankfurt, and Milan. It also operates multiple weekly flights to cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, and Zurich. With these options, travelers have more flexibility when planning their journeys between Europe and Asia.

Cathay Pacific’s Continued Expansion Across Europe

The expansion of Cathay Pacific’s long-haul routes is not restricted to Brussels. The airline is always focused on network expansion throughout Europe. It now has five daily flights operating from London which gives he frequent travelers a direct connection to two of the most important financial centers in the world. Also, the airline’s services from Milan, Paris, and Zurich make Hong Kong and many other destinations easily accessible to leisure and business travelers.

With these moves, Cathay Pacific aims to strengthen its role as one of the top airlines for European connections, offering convenience, comfort, and flexibility to its passengers.



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