Paris, France – Pakistan Airlines has sparked outrage with an advertisement promoting the resumption of its Islamabad-to-Paris flights.
The ill-conceived ad features an aeroplane appearing to fly directly toward the iconic Eiffel Tower, evoking unsettling parallels to the tragic 9/11 attacks.
The promotional graphic, which includes the caption “Paris, we’re coming today,” left many questioning how it passed through the approval process.
Social media users were quick to criticise the airline for the poor design choice, with some assuming the designer was too young to recognise its sensitive implications.
One user, Shaunaksamant, offered a blunt critique: “I will personally pay for y’all to get a new creative agency.” Another, Yara, expressed disbelief: “I have absolutely no idea how this ad passed the approvals of the managers.”
A post on X (formerly Twitter) asked simply: “Info or warning?”
Adding to the controversy, critics pointed out that Pakistan Airlines had released a similarly controversial ad in the 1970s, showing a plane silhouette approaching the Twin Towers. One commenter quipped:
“Cool to see you have had the same designer since 1979.”
As public backlash continues to grow, the airline has yet to issue a formal response or explanation regarding the oversight.
- Pakistan Airlines resumed flights from Islamabad to Paris on January 10, 2025.
- The promotional ad shows a plane aimed at the Eiffel Tower, drawing comparisons to 9/11 imagery.
- Public outcry includes demands for better oversight and creative review.
This incident highlights the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in advertising—especially for industries with global reach.
