336 students return from Kyrgyzstan by PIA

The first flight from Bishkek landed in Islamabad at 8am on Tuesday with 167 students on board

By Our Correspondent
May 22, 2024
Pakistani students arrive at the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore from Bishkek after mobs in Kyrgyz capital attacked foreign students. — Screengrab/Interior Ministry/File
Pakistani students arrive at the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore from Bishkek after mobs in Kyrgyz capital attacked foreign students. — Screengrab/Interior Ministry/File

LAHORE: In a swift response to the recent violence against Pakistani students in Kyrgyzstan, the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has operated two special flights to bring 336 students back home safely.

The first flight from Bishkek landed in Islamabad at 8am on Tuesday with 167 students on board. Later in the day, a second flight reached Lahore at 6:30pm, carrying 169 students. At the Lahore airport, the students were welcomed by PIA Deputy General Manager Athar Hassan and Station Manager Ashfaq Awan. The students expressed their gratitude for the timely and efficient services provided by the PIA.

Three more flights have been planned to evacuate students on Wednesday (today). A PIA spokesperson has reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to support its compatriots in times of trouble, stating that additional flights will be arranged as needed. The spokesperson emphasized that the national airline was ready to assist Pakistanis in distress, highlighting the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being.