In a significant development for travelers, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed its London flight operations after a six-year gap, marking a new chapter for the airline and its passengers. The first flight, PK-785, departed from Islamabad carrying 325 passengers, signaling a long-awaited reconnection for many.
The airline will now operate four weekly flights between Pakistan and London, with three flights from Islamabad and one from Lahore. This resumption aims to provide direct travel facilities to over 1.6 million Pakistanis residing in the UK, a community that has long awaited this service.
The ceremony celebrating the resumption was attended by senior aviation officials and included a cake-cutting and raffle draw, highlighting the significance of this moment for PIA and its passengers. Defence Secretary Lt Gen (retd) Muhammad Ali remarked, “The resumption of flights will further strengthen ties between the two countries and their people,” emphasizing the broader implications of this service.
PIA’s connection to London is historic; the airline’s first international destination was London, establishing a 71-year association with the route. However, this relationship faced a setback when PIA was banned from flying to the UK in June 2020 following a tragic crash in Karachi that claimed 97 lives.
In a positive turn of events, the UK Air Safety Committee lifted the ban on Pakistani airlines in July 2025, paving the way for PIA’s return to the skies. The flight safely landed at Heathrow Airport, marking a triumphant return for the airline.
The British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott, welcomed the restoration of PIA’s London flights, stating, “The resumption reflects the growing relations between Pakistan and the UK.” This sentiment resonates with many who view the flights as a bridge between the two nations.
Looking ahead, PIA plans to extend its operations to Birmingham and London, aiming to improve its services and expand its fleet under new ownership. The airline is committed to providing direct travel facilities to the Pakistani diaspora, which has been eagerly anticipating this moment.
As PIA embarks on this new journey, the airline’s leadership is focused on enhancing passenger experience and safety, ensuring that the lessons learned from the past contribute to a brighter future.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific timeline for the expansion of services, but the airline’s commitment to reconnecting with its passengers is clear.
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