Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Restarts Direct Flights to Manchester Following Safety Improvements
Islamabad, Pakistan (Star Struck Times) — Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially resumed its flight operations to the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone after a five-year hiatus. The inaugural flight from Islamabad to Manchester took off today, signaling the return of direct services following a suspension that began in 2020.
The resumption of flights comes after the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority lifted the ban on Pakistani airlines in July 2025. The ban was imposed following a 2020 PIA Airbus A320 crash in Karachi that resulted in 97 fatalities and subsequent revelations of irregularities in pilot licensing. The lifting of the ban was preceded by rigorous technical audits and demonstrable improvements in aviation safety standards by PIA.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif inaugurated the first flight, emphasizing the government’s commitment to restoring PIA’s global credibility. He acknowledged the pivotal role of Pakistan’s diplomats in Britain and across Europe in facilitating the resumption of these services. The ceremony was attended by the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, and other senior officials.
The first direct PIA flight to Manchester departed at 12:05 PM, with a Boeing 777 aircraft carrying 273 passengers. The flight, designated PK 701, is scheduled to arrive in Manchester at 5:00 PM British time and depart for Islamabad at 7:00 PM, reaching Islamabad at 7:00 AM the next morning. Initially, two weekly flights will operate on Mondays and Tuesdays, with plans to expand to four weekly services in the near future.
The resumption of PIA’s UK flights is expected to strengthen economic and social ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom. It will facilitate the more than 1.7 million Pakistani diaspora to travel conveniently to Pakistan, boosting business opportunities and reconnecting communities.
In the second phase of operations, PIA plans to begin flights to London and Birmingham, further expanding its presence in the UK market. The airline has already received the Third Country Operator (TCO) approval for flight operations in the UK, according to the Pakistani high commission.
The resumption of PIA’s UK flights marks a significant achievement for Pakistan’s aviation sector, reflecting the country’s commitment to meeting international safety standards and restoring confidence in its national carrier. As the airline continues to expand its international operations, it aims to rebuild its reputation and contribute to the growth of Pakistan’s economy through enhanced connectivity and increased tourism.
FAQs:
Q: When did PIA resume flights to the UK?
A: PIA resumed flights to the UK on October 25, 2025, after a five-year hiatus.
Q: Which cities will PIA operate flights to in the UK?
A: Initially, PIA will operate flights between Islamabad and Manchester, with plans to expand to London and Birmingham in the second phase.
Q: What led to the suspension of PIA’s UK flights?
A: The suspension was due to a 2020 PIA Airbus A320 crash in Karachi that resulted in 97 fatalities and subsequent revelations of irregularities in pilot licensing.
Q: How has PIA improved its safety standards?
A: PIA has undergone rigorous technical audits and implemented demonstrable improvements in aviation safety standards, leading to the lifting of the ban by the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority.
Q: How can passengers book flights with PIA?
A: Passengers can book flights through the PIA website or authorized partners.
