Europe Travel Reopens: Direct Flights from Pakistan to London and Paris Resume in Feb 2026
A New Era for Pakistani Travelers: Direct Connectivity Restored
February 2026 marks a transformative moment for the Pakistani travel industry. For the first time in years, the long-awaited restoration of direct flight paths between Pakistan and the European continent has become a reality. This development follows the comprehensive safety clearance granted by international aviation regulators, allowing Pakistani carriers to operate once again in European and British airspace.
For travelers, this means a significant reduction in travel time—eliminating the need for lengthy layovers in Middle Eastern hubs—and a substantial decrease in ticket pricing due to increased competition and direct routing.
Why This Matters: The ICAO Safety Clearance
The breakthrough comes after the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) successfully addressed the final safety protocols mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). In late January 2026, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted the long-standing restrictions, paving the way for the February 2026 relaunch. This move is expected to boost bilateral trade, educational exchanges, and tourism between Pakistan and the West.
Flight Schedules and Destinations: London and Paris Leading the Way
The initial phase of the restoration focuses on the highest-demand routes. As of the first week of February, scheduled operations have commenced for:
- Lahore (LHE) to London Heathrow (LHR): Direct daily operations.
- Islamabad (ISB) to Paris (CDG): Three times weekly flights.
- Karachi (KHI) to Manchester (MAN): Expected to commence by late February 2026.
Primary Hubs: Lahore and Islamabad Operations
Lahore and Islamabad have been designated as the primary departure points for these inaugural direct routes. Advanced Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 aircraft are being deployed to ensure international standards of comfort and safety. With direct flights now available, the journey from Islamabad to Paris is now under 8 hours, compared to the previous 14–16 hour multi-stop alternatives.
How GoTravel.pk Facilitates Your European Journey
As these routes open, the demand for both business and leisure visas is surging. GoTravel.pk is uniquely positioned to handle this influx, offering streamlined services for the new travel environment of 2026. We provide:
- Real-time Flight Booking: Access to the first wave of direct flight seats at competitive rates.
- Schengen & UK Visa Assistance: Expert guidance on documentation for the 2026 visa protocols.
- Customized European Tours: Tailored packages for London, Paris, and beyond, starting from Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding 2026 Europe Travel
- Which airlines are currently operating direct flights? As of February 2026, the national carrier along with two private international partners have received clearance for direct routes from Pakistan to the EU and UK.
- Is it cheaper to fly direct or via a layover? Historically, direct flights were premium. However, with the 2026 reopening, promotional fares are currently making direct flights more cost-effective than many connecting options through the Gulf.
- Can I book a multi-city European tour via GoTravel.pk? Yes. Our systems are updated with the latest 2026 flight schedules, allowing you to fly direct to London and return via Paris or Frankfurt seamlessly.
