PIA is set to resume flights to London and Manchester by early 2025, offering direct connectivity and enhanced services between Pakistan and the UK.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume its flights to the United Kingdom, focusing on key destinations such as London and Manchester. This development comes after a suspension that began in June 2020 due to regulatory concerns. The anticipated resumption is expected to commence by early 2025, following comprehensive inspections and approvals from relevant aviation authorities.
Key Highlights:
Resumption Timeline: PIA plans to restart its UK operations by early 2025, with initial flights targeting major cities including London and Manchester.
Regulatory Approvals: The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has lifted its suspension of PIA's authorization to operate in the EU. Following this, PIA is seeking approval from the UK's Department for Transport (DfT) to reinstate routes to London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
Security Assessments: A delegation from the British Department for Transport is scheduled to visit Pakistan to review the security systems at major airports, including those in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. This assessment is crucial for the resumption of direct flights to the UK.
PIA's Planned UK Flight Schedule:
| Destination | Frequency | Aircraft Type |
|---|---|---|
| London | 3 times per week | Boeing 777 |
| Manchester | 2 times per week | Boeing 777 |
Steps Taken by PIA to Ensure Compliance:
Pilot License Verification: In response to past concerns, PIA has undertaken a thorough verification process of its pilots' licenses to ensure authenticity and compliance with international standards.
Enhanced Training Programs: The airline has implemented rigorous training programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of its flight and ground staff, aligning with global aviation best practices.
Upgraded Security Measures: PIA has invested in advanced security technologies and protocols at major airports to meet international security standards, as evidenced by recent certifications from international aviation authorities.
Benefits for Passengers:
Direct Connectivity: The resumption of PIA flights offers direct travel options between Pakistan and key UK cities, reducing travel time and eliminating the need for layovers.
Competitive Fares: PIA aims to provide competitive pricing for its UK routes, making air travel more affordable for passengers.
Enhanced In-Flight Experience: With upgraded aircraft and improved in-flight services, passengers can look forward to a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Important Visa Update for UK
All Pakistanis travelling to the UK are required to have a valid UK visa from Pakistan before departing to any destination in UK. The visa process is simple and streamlined. More details on UK Visa for Pakistani is elaborated here.
Booking Information:
Passengers interested in traveling to London or Manchester can book their flights through PIA's official website or authorized travel agents. Bookings are expected to open in December 2024, ahead of the planned resumption in January 2025.
The anticipated resumption of PIA flights to the UK marks a significant milestone in the airline's efforts to restore its international operations. With enhanced safety measures and a commitment to compliance with international standards, PIA is poised to reconnect Pakistan with major UK cities, benefiting travelers and strengthening bilateral ties.
