Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed its direct flights to the United Kingdom after a hiatus of five years. The first flight departed from Islamabad to Manchester on Saturday.
In the first phase, PIA will operate two weekly flights between Islamabad and Manchester, scheduled for Tuesdays and Saturdays.
The airline plans to extend its services to Birmingham and London in the second phase.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority issued a Foreign Aircraft Operating Permit to PIA, which was the final clearance needed for the resumption of flights. PIA had also previously secured the ‘Third Country Operator’ (TCO) approval.
PIA was banned from operating in the UK in 2020 following a fatal air crash and revelations that a significant number of Pakistani pilots held questionable licenses.
The UK officially lifted the five-year ban on Pakistani airlines in July 2025, after significant safety improvements were implemented by Pakistan’s aviation authorities.
The resumption of direct flights is a major milestone for PIA and Pakistan’s aviation sector.
Provide relief for the large Pakistani diaspora in the UK by offering a more convenient and direct travel option.
PIA to resume flights to UK this month: Here’s everything you need to know
Help improve the national airline’s financial situation, as UK routes were among its most profitable before the ban.
Coincide with the government’s plans to privatize PIA, with the restored routes expected to increase the airline’s value.
