History of Airblue

Airblue is a Pakistani private airline that began flying in 2004, linking Pakistan’s main cities and later operating international services.

Beginnings

Airblue was set up in the early 2000s, when Pakistan opened up its aviation market to private operators. It started domestic services, with a focus on service and on-time reliability, and soon added international routes.

Growth

Over the years the airline expanded its fleet of Airbus aircraft and added routes to the Gulf and, with larger aircraft, longer services including to the UK. It also operates in the pilgrim travel market.

A tragic accident

In July 2010 an Airblue Airbus A321 on a flight from Karachi to Islamabad crashed into the Margalla Hills while approaching Islamabad, killing everyone on board. It is one of the deadliest aviation accidents in Pakistan’s history.

Regulatory milestones

Airblue was among the Pakistani airlines affected when the European Union restricted Pakistani carriers in 2020, and it received EU third-country operator authorisation again in late 2024, according to reports. Check the current regulatory position with the airline and regulators. See PIA flights to the EU and UK explained.

Today

Airblue flies from the main Pakistani cities. See the Airblue page and how to check Airblue flight status.

General information only, not legal or safety advice. Details change; check with your airline and the relevant authority. See our editorial policy.