Pakistan International Arlines (PIA) : News / Updates

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Karachi 1960's

 

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1950

 

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Karachi

 

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PIA’s operations began from Karachi in 1955 with the establishment of the Pakistan International Airlines Corporation (PIAC).

In 1956–57, a project was launched to construct PIA’s head office near Karachi Airport, aiming to manage all administrative affairs of the new national airline from a single center.

The initial construction of the PIA Building was completed between 1958 and 1959. Designed in a modern architectural style by leading Pakistani and foreign engineers of the time, the building represented contemporary design excellence.

The construction was supervised by the Civil Aviation Department along with PIA’s early Engineering and Finance wings. According to government records from 1958–60, a huge amount was spent on developing PIA’s core infrastructure, which included the Karachi head office, maintenance base, and staff housing colonies.

 

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In 1962, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) etched its name in aviation history by setting a world speed record. Operating a Boeing 720B, PIA completed a flight from London to Karachi in just 6 hours and 43 minutes, a record for a commercial jetliner at the time.

The aircraft, captained by the legendary pilot Capt. Abdullah Baig, averaged a speed of over 938 km/h (582 mph), showcasing PIA’s operational excellence during its golden era.

This achievement remains a proud milestone in both Pakistan’s and global aviation history.

 

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1960

 

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