ISLAMABAD – After five long years, PIA has finally resumed its flights to the United Kingdom, marking a major comeback for the national flag carrier. The first flight took off for Manchester, ending a ban that had kept the airline grounded on UK routes since 2020.
According to officials, PIA will now operate non-stop flights between Manchester and major cities in Pakistan using its modern Boeing 777-ER aircraft. Initially, there will be two flights per week — on Tuesdays and Saturdays — in the first phase of operations.
The return of PIA to British skies is being celebrated as an important milestone, especially for the large Pakistani community living in northern England. The airline’s management expressed confidence that the resumption will improve connectivity, boost tourism, and enhance trade relations between Pakistan and the UK.
A grand ceremony was held at Islamabad International Airport to celebrate the historic occasion. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif attended the event, which was marked by national pride and excitement. The airport was decorated for the occasion, including a special portrait of a Manchester landmark to symbolize the renewed link.
The PIA flights to the UK had been suspended in July 2020 after former Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan’s remarks about the authenticity of pilot licenses led to a global suspension. This caused major setbacks to the airline’s international reputation and operations.
Before restarting the flights, PIA’s management conducted a thorough technical inspection of its Boeing 777 aircraft at Karachi’s Asfahani Hangar. Officials said all safety and regulatory requirements were fully met before approval.
In other news read more about HBL Posts Rs 112 Billion Profit In 9M’25 Amid Strong Growth Across All Segments
The UK remains Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade worth nearly £4.7 billion annually. Experts believe the resumption of PIA flights will strengthen economic ties, promote tourism, and allow families to reunite more easily across borders.
