Mir Salam Jogezai
QUETTA: Iran Air flights between Quetta and Zahedan have resumed after a temporary suspension, raising hopes of stronger trade ties, business cooperation and people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and Iran.
Iran Air flight IRA 0827 arrived at Quetta International Airport from Zahedan on Tuesday and later departed for the Iranian city, carrying more than 80 passengers. The resumption of the air service is expected to facilitate cross-border business activities and improve connectivity between Balochistan and Iran.
Officials from the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, including Jangiyan Baloch, Sardar Ayub Marriani and Jumma Khan Badizai, welcomed representatives of the Zahedan Chamber of Commerce alongside Quetta Airport Manager Khalid Kakar and other officials.
A meeting was also held between Zahedan Chamber of Commerce President Haji Hakim Regi and representatives of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Participants discussed ways to promote bilateral trade, strengthen commercial relations and expand cooperation between the business communities of both countries.
The Iran Air services connecting Quetta with Zahedan and Mashhad were inaugurated by Balochistan Governor Jafar Khan Mandokhail in December 2025. However, the flights remained suspended for some time due to the prevailing international situation.
The restoration of the Quetta–Zahedan flight service has been welcomed by Balochistan’s business community and the public, who hope that improved air connectivity will encourage trade, facilitate travel and strengthen economic relations between Pakistan and Iran.
Zahedan, a major city in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province, has geographical and commercial significance for Balochistan. The resumption of direct flights could provide additional opportunities for business delegations, traders and other travellers seeking closer engagement between the neighbouring regions.
The renewed air link is expected to support regional connectivity and contribute to stronger Pakistan-Iran economic cooperation, particularly by creating more convenient travel opportunities for traders and the business communities of Quetta and Zahedan.
