Pakistan International Airlines returns to UK skies after five years

Pakistan International Airlines’ (PIA) first direct flight from Islamabad International Airport (ISB) is set to land at Manchester Airport (MAN) on October 25 after a five-year hiatus.

Since 2020, there have been no direct flights between Pakistan and airports north of London, significantly increasing travel times and personal costs for passengers.

The return follows the UK’s decision to remove PIA from its Air Safety List on 16 July, a move predicated on rigorous technical audits and demonstrable improvements in the airline’s aviation safety standards. Backed by comprehensive assessments of pilot licensing, aircraft maintenance, and safety management protocols, this underscores the confidence of UK aviation authorities in PIA’s adherence to stringent international flight safety standards.

“This is a moment of immense pride and profound significance for Pakistan, and a huge benefit for the thousands of passengers who rely on this vital route” stated AVM Muhammad Amir Hayat Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pakistan International Airlines.

“Working closely with our UK partners, the journey for us to this point has been one of meticulous reform and a steadfast commitment to excellence. We have worked tirelessly to not only rectify past challenges but to establish a robust and world-class aviation safety framework. The return of PIA to the UK is a direct result of these efforts and a clear signal of our renewed operational integrity and financial health, promising a reliable and affordable service for all.”

PIA set to resume direct flights to UK this month

The five-year suspension, which began in 2020, prompted an intensive period of reform within Pakistan’s aviation sector.

Key initiatives included:

• Rectification of pilot licensing:  Pakistan partnered closely with British civil aviation authorities to re-test and certify its pilots in the UK, alongside a comprehensive ICAO audit. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) later confirmed it had “re-established sufficient confidence” in Pakistan’s oversight capabilities.

• Enhancement of broader safety standards: PIA and Pakistani authorities implemented significant upgrades to their overall safety management systems, ensuring full compliance with international aviation regulations.

Strategic financial restructuring: PIA underwent a transformative financial restructuring, creating an operationally stable airline. This culminated in PIA reporting its first annual profit in over two decades, signalling a strong foundation for future growth and investment in safety.

His Excellency Dr Mohammad Faisal, High Commissioner of Pakistan to the UK, emphasized the broader implications of this development for the nations and their citizens.

“The re-establishment of direct air links is a powerful symbol of our enduring friendship and deepening partnership with the United Kingdom. This will unlock immense opportunities, most importantly for people and their families, as well as trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. The arrival of PIA’s first flight today is a momentous occasion, celebrating not only a technical achievement but a renewed bond between two nations.”

Key impacts and benefits of the resumed flights include

• Boost to bilateral trade and economic growth with more affordable, faster options: Direct flights will significantly enhance connectivity and competition in the aviation industry; reduce supply chain lengths and transit times; and, increase efficiencies for people as well as businesses. This – together with the recently launched UK-Pakistan Trade Dialogue – lays the foundations for greater trade volumes, investment, and job creation in both countries.
• Strengthening diaspora ties: The UK is home to the second-largest Pakistani diaspora globally. The resumption of PIA’s direct flights will provide a vital alternative route for British-Pakistani residents, facilitating easier travel.
• Enhanced tourism and cultural exchange: The route will make travel more accessible and appealing for tourists seeking affordable direct flights, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of the cultures of both Pakistan and the UK.
• Increased connectivity for UK Airports: Manchester Airport, a key gateway to the North of England and a strategic choice for the initial flights given its proximity to a large proportion of the Pakistani diaspora in the UK (with the highest concentrations living in the West Midlands, North West, and Yorkshire & The Humber according to 2021 census data), will benefit from increased passenger traffic and cargo volumes, bolstering its economic contribution to the region.
• Symbol of renewed confidence: The UK’s decision to lift restrictions sends a strong message of confidence in Pakistan’s aviation sector, potentially paving the way for further international collaboration and partnerships between the nations.

Direct flights between Manchester and Islamabad are available to book on the PIA website or through booking partners, with fares starting from GBP£633 and takes just under eight hours.

Initially, four weekly flights are expected to operate. Flights from Birmingham and London are expected to follow in the next phase as demand dictates.