ISLAMABAD: In a major milestone for Pakistan’s aviation industry, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed direct flight operations to the United Kingdom after a five-year hiatus, with the first Islamabad–Manchester flight taking off on Saturday, carrying 284 passengers.
The flight marks PIA’s long-awaited return to the UK route following the suspension of direct operations in July 2020, when regulatory restrictions halted flights to Europe and Britain.
A simple yet dignified ceremony was held at Islamabad International Airport, attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and diplomatic missions.
Defence Minister Asif said the restoration of PIA’s UK operations would further strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, while offering safe, comfortable, and direct air travel for the 1.6 million Pakistanis living in Britain.
He directed the airline’s management to continue improving service quality, upgrade in-flight facilities, and gradually expand routes to other UK cities.
During the event, a lucky draw added a celebratory touch with one passenger winning a 660cc car, while others received mobile phones and special gifts. Commemorative shields were also presented to distinguished guests by PIA’s Chief Executive Officer.
Initially, PIA will operate two weekly flights between Islamabad and Manchester on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with plans underway to expand services to London and Birmingham in the coming months.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation particularly the Pakistani community in the UK on PIA’s return to direct British routes, calling it a historic step toward national revival.
With the grace of Allah, Pakistan’s image around the world is being restored, the Prime Minister said, commending the efforts of Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, the Aviation Ministry, the CAA, and PIA officials for making the milestone possible.
He said the ban had tarnished PIA’s reputation, but years of hard work and reform had finally led to its restoration and international reacceptance.
The premier added that the resumption of flights would not only facilitate overseas Pakistanis but also bring new strength to Pakistan–UK relations, reinforcing the government’s ongoing reforms in national institutions.
Through reforms, the journey of improvement in every national institution of Pakistan is progressing rapidly, the Prime Minister remarked.