PIA to Resume UK Flights from October 25
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced it will resume UK flights from October 25, marking a return after five years. The first leg will connect Islamabad to Manchester.
Flights will operate every Tuesday and Saturday initially.
In a subsequent phase, PIA plans to add routes to London and Birmingham.
Route Details & Schedule
The outbound flight departs Islamabad at 12:00 p.m. and lands in Manchester at 5:00 p.m. local time.
Return flights leave Manchester at 7:00 p.m. and reach Islamabad by 7:00 a.m. the next day.
This direct service cuts travel time to about eight hours, compared to the earlier 15-hour journey.
Regulatory Approval & Certifications
Earlier in September, PIA secured formal clearance from the UK’s Department for Transport to act as a Third Country Operator.
The airline also gained a five-year ACC3 certification, covering cargo and security standards.
These credentials signal renewed confidence in PIA’s operational and safety compliance.
Significance After Long Suspension
UK authorities had suspended PIA’s rights to operate direct services after a 2020 crash and pilot licensing scandal.
The ban lasted five years until recent safety reforms and audits paved the way for reinstatement.
Resuming UK flights is a major milestone for PIA’s revival and the government’s push to rebuild the airline.
Leadership Comments & Acknowledgments
PIA’s CEO, Air Vice Marshal Mohammad Amir Hayat, praised the airline team’s efforts to meet international audit standards.
He thanked the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Defence, Pakistan’s CAA, and other stakeholders for support.
He described the resumption as a crucial step in reestablishing direct connectivity between Pakistan and the UK.
Trade, Diaspora & Strategic Importance
The UK hosts over 1.6 million people of Pakistani origin. Direct flights will significantly ease travel for the diaspora.
Direct cargo links may also revive trade volume and streamline import-export processes.
This route revival complements PIA’s broader agenda ahead of planned privatization and restructuring.
Preparations & Logistics
In anticipation, PIA has started arranging accommodations for crew, engineers, and flight staff in Manchester.
The procurement team is calling bids for hotel services for crew and staff.
These preparations aim to prevent operational disruptions once flights begin.
Challenges & Risks Ahead
Resuming UK service demands sustained compliance with international safety, staff readiness, and maintenance standards.
Market competition from Middle Eastern carriers may pressure pricing and load factors.
Any operational or regulatory lapses could endanger flight continuity or invite fresh scrutiny.
Outlook & Expansion Path
Following Manchester, PIA plans to open routes to London and Birmingham.
They may scale frequency over time as demand stabilizes and performance metrics are proven.
Restored UK flights may help Pakistan reclaim strategic slots and boost PIA’s revenue base.
