Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed direct flights to the UK, ending a five-year ban that led to an estimated annual revenue loss of around PKR 40 billion (approx. USD 144 million).
The first flight departed from Islamabad to Manchester following a ceremony at Islamabad International Airport. Defence Minister Asif, who attended the event, stated that the resumption would strengthen ties between the two countries and offer better travel options for the over 1.6 million Pakistanis residing in Britain. PIA will initially operate two weekly flights (Tuesdays and Saturdays) on this route, with plans to eventually expand services to London and Birmingham. The lifting of the ban in July comes amidst accelerated efforts by Islamabad to privatize the loss-making national airline.
