PIA gears up for return to British skies as UK lifts ban

Celina Ali

Islamabad: In a major boost for Pakistan’s aviation industry, the United Kingdom has officially lifted restrictions on Pakistani airlines, clearing the way for the resumption of direct flights. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the national flag carrier, has welcomed the development and reaffirmed its commitment to restoring air connectivity between the two countries.

In a formal statement issued on Wednesday, PIA described the UK’s decision as a “certification of Pakistan’s improved air safety standards.” The airline emphasized that the lifting of the ban was made possible through strict adherence to international aviation safety protocols, as acknowledged by the UK Air Safety Committee.

The airline further announced that it is in the final stages of preparation to launch flights to the UK. A flight schedule has been submitted for approval, and PIA aims to commence operations as soon as it is cleared.

The official resumption of PIA’s UK operations will begin with flights from Islamabad to Manchester. Initially, three weekly flights are expected to operate on this route once the schedule receives regulatory clearance.

The PIA administration extended its deep gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, the Ministry of Defence, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, the Civil Aviation Authority, and other relevant institutions. The airline noted that the lifting of the ban was made possible due to the personal efforts and coordinated cooperation of all involved.

The development is seen as a turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector, offering renewed confidence in the country’s compliance with global safety standards and opening the door for greater people-to-people exchange, trade, and tourism between Pakistan and the UK.