OMG! Although the new international departure-cum-transit lounge at Karachi International Airport was expected to be completed in October 1973, clearly that was an overly optimistic guestimate. In the meantime, you've spent the past hour sweating it out in the stuffy, run down remnants of the old airport as you awaited the call to board for your PIA flight to Beirut. The hot summer sun had never felt more oppressive as you walked out to your waiting Boeing 720B, which was looking quite nice in PIA's green and white colors.

Ascending the portable air stairs, you breath a sigh of relief as you enter the nicely air conditioned cabin. A pretty hostess relieves you of your jacket and offers to bring you a pre-flight cocktail. Hmm... what's the Champagne on offer today, Luv? Ooooo... Charles Heidsieck. A glass of that would be marvelous, thanks.

Settling into your deep, plush recliner, you admire the view of the two muscular Pratt & Whitney JT3Ds outside your window, until your reverie is interrupted by the delivery of your Champagne along with a copy of the First Class menu. The flight will make a stop at Teheran enroute to Beirut, and you're pleased to see that both a snack and luncheon will be served along the way...

PIA PAKISTAN INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES

Karachi to Teheran
Cocktail Hour

Canape
Cheese Wafers
Salted Nuts
Olives
Cocktail Sandwiches
Assorted Pastries
Coffee, Tea or Chocolate


Teheran to Beirut
Luncheon

Choice of Hors d'oeuvre

Grilled Lamb Kebab
~or~
Roast Breast of Chicken
~or~
Filet of Salmon

Seasonal Vegetables
Rissole Potatoes

Mixed Salad

Assorted Cheese

Shahi Tukra
~or~
Gateau Lemon

Coffee or Tea