Islamabad (Khyber Mail) July 19, 2025: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights between Islamabad and Manchester starting August 16, marking a major milestone in the national carrier’s return to UK skies after a five-year suspension due to safety concerns.
The announcement follows the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s decision to remove Pakistan from its Air Safety List on July 16, 2025, after extensive reforms by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These included overhauling pilot licensing protocols, enhancing safety oversight, and aligning with international aviation standards.
PIA will operate four weekly flights on the route using Boeing 777 aircraft, with tickets expected to go on sale imminently. The airline previously operated 21 weekly flights to London, Manchester, and Birmingham before the 2020 ban, which was triggered by revelations of fraudulent pilot credentials following the crash of Flight PK8303 in Karachi.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott praised the collaborative efforts between UK and Pakistani aviation authorities, stating, “I look forward to traveling with Pakistani airlines once flights resume.”
The resumption is expected to benefit over 1.6 million British residents of Pakistani heritage, facilitating family reunions, tourism, and trade. Bilateral commerce between the UK and Pakistan currently stands at £4.7 billion annually, and easier travel is anticipated to further strengthen economic ties.
PIA’s return to UK operations also comes amid its privatization drive, with four consortiums shortlisted to bid for a majority stake in the airline later this year. Aviation analysts view the restored UK access as a strategic boost to PIA’s valuation and global credibility.
Additional routes to London Heathrow and Birmingham are expected to follow later in 2025, as PIA rebuilds its long-haul network and reclaims its position in transcontinental travel.