Islamabad: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) marked a significant milestone on Saturday as it resumed direct flights to the United Kingdom after a five-year suspension. The inaugural flight PK-701, operated by a Boeing 777, took off from Islamabad International Airport for Manchester, carrying hopes of restoring the airline’s lost reputation and profitability.
The ceremony was attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, and senior Pakistani and British officials. Speaking at the event, the defence minister expressed optimism about PIA’s revival, emphasizing that the government was determined to turn the national carrier into a competitive and profitable organization.
“We have successfully reinstated the quality and credibility of our national airline,” said Asif, acknowledging the diplomatic staff’s efforts and the cooperation extended by the British High Commission.
Britain lifted its five-year ban on Pakistani airlines earlier this year, following PIA’s Third Country Operator (TCO) approval in September. This clearance paved the way for the resumption of UK operations.
A warm reception awaited the inaugural flight at Manchester Airport, where another ceremony was held to commemorate the occasion.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Mohammad Faisal, told The Telegraph that this reopening could soon lead to flights to other British cities, including London and Birmingham. He said that the airline had worked hard to regain international trust following the 2020 Karachi plane crash that claimed 97 lives and exposed serious irregularities in pilot licensing.
“We have established a new system for pilot verification with external examiners and regulatory oversight to ensure transparency,” Faisal added.
“Pakistani pilots are among the best in the world, flying with top global airlines.”
PIA had previously suffered an estimated Rs40 billion ($144 million) annual loss due to the suspension of its UK routes — which have historically been among its most profitable. With its Heathrow landing slots still intact, the airline now aims to gradually rebuild its European network.
