Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has achieved a major breakthrough after receiving approval from the UK Department of Transport as a third-country operator. This development will allow the national carrier to resume direct flights to Britain starting next month.
Flights to Resume in Phases
According to a PIA spokesperson, the airline will begin direct operations to Manchester in October. In the second phase, services to Birmingham and London will be introduced, further strengthening air connectivity between Pakistan and the UK.
Passenger and Cargo Services
The airline confirmed that it will operate both passenger and cargo flights. This expansion is expected to boost commercial activity, trade, and travel between the two countries. To support cargo operations, the UK Department of Transport has also granted a five-year ACC3 certificate, valid until 2030. This certificate allows PIA to transport cargo from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to multiple UK destinations.
Audit and International Trust
Before granting the license, British authorities carried out a detailed audit with assistance from Pakistan Civil Aviation and UK inspection teams. The formal approval was conveyed to PIA on Tuesday, marking an important step in the airline’s revival efforts. The clearance reflects renewed international confidence in the safety and reliability of PIA’s operations.
Leadership’s Response
The CEO of PIA expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and other institutions for their support in achieving this milestone.
“This progress is a milestone in the revival of the organization,” a spokesperson said, emphasizing that the approval highlights international trust in PIA’s renewed commitment to quality service and safety.
With this development, PIA is set to reconnect Pakistan with key British cities, benefiting both passengers and businesses.
In other news read more about PIA privatization bidding expected in early November
