Pakistan International Airlines to Resume UK Flights, Eyes U.S. Routes Next

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is preparing to restart direct flights to the United Kingdom, marking a major step toward restoring the country’s global aviation links. The move follows the UK’s decision to grant operational clearance to both PIA and private Pakistani carriers, paving the way for renewed service to key British cities.

The first flight from Islamabad (ISB) to Manchester (MAN) is scheduled for October 25, with additional routes planned to London Heathrow (LHR) and Birmingham (BHX) in the coming months. Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif hailed the development as a milestone for Pakistan’s aviation sector, noting that multiple airlines have already expressed interest in launching services.

The UK approval comes after years of restrictions tied to safety and certification concerns, which had severely limited Pakistan’s access to European and North American markets. With these barriers now lifted, the government is turning its attention to reestablishing direct flights to the United States.

According to Asif, discussions with U.S. aviation regulators have advanced positively, and Pakistan expects formal approval soon. He emphasized that the country has met key international safety and compliance standards, positioning the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to seek broader global access. Direct flights to the U.S. would mark Pakistan’s first such operations in several years, offering greater convenience for business travelers and the Pakistani diaspora.

Pakistan’s aviation industry has undergone extensive reform since losing key international certifications during the previous administration. The current government has worked to align with global standards set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These efforts have helped rebuild confidence and strengthen Pakistan’s case for expanded international operations.

Meanwhile, the government’s privatization of PIA is entering its final phase, a crucial condition of the US$7 billion IMF bailout aimed at reducing losses from state-owned enterprises. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirmed that the sale of a majority stake in PIA is nearing completion, describing it as vital to stabilizing the airline’s finances and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Once a global industry leader, PIA has struggled for decades with mounting debt, aging aircraft, and poor management. Nearly one-third of its 30-plane fleet remains grounded due to maintenance and safety issues, with accumulated losses of more than US$2.5 billion over the past decade.

PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan said private investment is essential for the carrier’s turnaround: “There needs to be investment in the fleet and in overall business efficiency. These things can come from the private sector if a strong investor steps in.”

Aviation Minister Asif added that following privatization, the airline plans to expand its fleet and relaunch routes across China, Europe, and East Asia, signaling a new era of modernization and growth for Pakistan’s aviation sector. 

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aviationa2z.com