Manchester( The COW News Digital) Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially resumed direct flights to the United Kingdom after a five-year suspension, marking a major milestone in the national carrier’s revival efforts.
The first flight from Islamabad touched down in Manchester early Sunday morning, carrying 284 passengers on board. The event sparked celebrations among the Pakistani community in Britain, as hundreds of overseas Pakistanis gathered at Manchester Airport to warmly welcome the historic flight.
The resumption ceremony was inaugurated at Islamabad International Airport, where Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott jointly bid farewell to the flight. A special ceremony was held to mark the occasion, highlighting renewed diplomatic and aviation cooperation between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
Khawaja Asif described the event as a “moment of national pride,” emphasizing that restoring PIA’s operations to the UK was a top government priority. “The suspension of flights had damaged Pakistan’s global reputation,” he said. “Today’s success reflects the government’s effective diplomacy and commitment to restoring the airline’s credibility and service standards.”
He credited Pakistani diplomats in London and across Europe for their tireless efforts in negotiating with UK and EU aviation authorities. “Our envoys fought Pakistan’s case with professionalism and dedication. We have successfully regained confidence in our aviation safety systems,” Asif added.
According to PIA officials, the airline will initially operate two weekly flights — on Tuesdays and Saturdays — between Islamabad and Manchester. Expansion to other UK cities, including London and Birmingham, is expected in the near future.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott also lauded the move, calling it “a positive step towards strengthening bilateral ties.” She said, “The resumption of direct flights reflects improved cooperation and trust between our two countries. I congratulate Pakistan’s leadership for bringing PIA back to UK skies.”
PIA’s UK operations were suspended in 2020 following a safety certification issue raised by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The airline has since undergone a rigorous audit and implemented major reforms in safety protocols, fleet modernization, and staff training.
With the Manchester route now open, PIA aims to gradually rebuild its network across Europe, providing affordable and direct air travel options for millions of overseas Pakistanis.
