Published on
October 25, 2025
After a five-year suspension, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially resumed its flight operations to the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone for both Pakistan’s aviation sector and international travel connectivity. The resumption followed the lifting of a ban imposed in 2020 by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the UK Civil Aviation Authority, which had grounded the airline after a tragic Karachi air crash and revelations of a fake pilot licence scandal.
The first Islamabad to Manchester flight took off on Saturday with 284 passengers on board, symbolizing a new beginning for the state-run carrier. A formal ceremony held at Islamabad International Airport was attended by senior government officials, diplomats, and aviation representatives, highlighting the importance of this comeback not just for PIA, but for Pakistan’s tourism and economic engagement with Britain.
The decision to restart direct flights between the two countries is expected to strengthen travel, trade, and cultural exchanges, especially benefiting the over 1.6 million Pakistanis residing in the UK. For travelers, it offers renewed access to affordable, direct air routes, reconnecting families and revitalizing tourism opportunities between Pakistan and Britain.
Background: A Ban That Grounded a Nation’s Flag Carrier
In 2020, Pakistan International Airlines faced one of the most severe crises in its history. A domestic air crash in Karachi claimed nearly 100 lives, prompting investigations that uncovered widespread irregularities in pilot licensing. Following these findings, the EASA and UK Civil Aviation Authority imposed a strict ban on the airline’s operations in Europe and the United Kingdom.
This suspension not only disrupted the airline’s international network but also caused a massive financial setback. Over the next five years, PIA reported estimated annual revenue losses of approximately PKR 40 billion, equivalent to around USD 144 million. The loss was particularly heavy as UK routes such as Manchester and Birmingham had been among the carrier’s most profitable, thanks to high passenger demand and valuable landing slots at Heathrow Airport.
The scandal deeply impacted Pakistan’s aviation reputation, pushing the government to initiate reforms aimed at improving safety standards, transparency, and pilot certification processes.
The Path to Reinstatement: Rebuilding Trust in the Skies
After years of inspections, audits, and compliance measures, EASA lifted its ban in November 2024, acknowledging significant improvements in Pakistan’s aviation oversight. Subsequently, in July 2025, the UK government removed Pakistan from its Air Safety List, clearing the path for Pakistani carriers to reapply for flight permissions.
This clearance reflected Pakistan’s progress toward restoring global confidence in its aviation safety infrastructure. The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority implemented strict licensing reforms, upgraded training protocols, and worked closely with international regulators to ensure adherence to global aviation norms.
With these developments, PIA began preparing for its long-awaited return to the UK, positioning itself to reclaim a vital segment of its international market.
A Ceremonial Return: Islamabad to Manchester
The inaugural flight from Islamabad to Manchester carried 284 passengers and departed in the presence of Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, signifying a proud moment for Pakistan’s aviation industry. The event, organized at Islamabad International Airport, was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, representatives from diplomatic missions, and key figures from the aviation sector.
During the ceremony, the Defence Minister expressed optimism that the resumption of direct flights would enhance bilateral relations and offer improved travel options for the Pakistani diaspora in the UK. He further emphasized that these flights would help facilitate tourism and business travel, serving as a bridge between the two nations.
The British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, also attended the send-off ceremony, acknowledging the renewed air connectivity as a positive step toward fostering closer people-to-people ties and strengthening diplomatic relations.
Initial Operations and Future Expansion Plans
According to PIA’s official announcement, the airline will initially operate two weekly flights between Islamabad and Manchester, scheduled on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Plans are already underway to expand services to London and Birmingham in the near future, gradually restoring the airline’s pre-ban route network.
Defence Minister Asif directed PIA officials to improve the airline’s in-flight services, maintain punctual schedules, and explore the possibility of increasing flight frequencies. The government’s focus remains on ensuring that the national carrier not only revives its operations but also enhances passenger satisfaction and reliability standards.
This gradual expansion strategy aligns with Pakistan’s broader aviation policy, which aims to strengthen the nation’s connectivity with Europe and the Middle East, thereby boosting tourism inflows and trade opportunities.
Economic and Tourism Impact of the Restart
The resumption of PIA’s UK operations is expected to have far-reaching economic implications. The airline had endured a significant loss in annual revenue during the ban period, especially from the lucrative UK market. The reopening of this corridor is anticipated to generate renewed income, helping offset past losses and improve the airline’s financial stability.
For the tourism industry, the restoration of direct flights means a surge in international visitor potential. Pakistan’s historical landmarks, scenic valleys, and cultural heritage sites are now more accessible to travelers from Britain. Similarly, outbound tourism from Pakistan is expected to grow, with families and students gaining easier access to British destinations.
Furthermore, the move aligns with Islamabad’s ongoing privatization efforts for the loss-making airline. The renewed access to UK routes enhances PIA’s valuation and attractiveness to potential investors, signaling a stronger future for Pakistan’s aviation and travel sector.
Strengthening the Pakistan-UK Travel Corridor
The Pakistan-UK air corridor has long served as a vital connection for both leisure and business travel. Its restoration signifies not only a return to normal operations but also a renewed chapter in international cooperation. The direct connectivity between Islamabad and Manchester is expected to stimulate bilateral tourism, promote trade relations, and facilitate cultural exchange between the two nations.
For the millions of Pakistani expatriates living in Britain, these flights represent more than just convenience—they symbolize reconnection with their homeland. The accessibility of direct, affordable, and reliable air travel will make it easier for families to reunite and for communities to stay connected across borders.
Looking Ahead: A Symbol of Renewal
The resumption of PIA’s flights to the United Kingdom after a long and challenging hiatus has become a symbol of perseverance for Pakistan’s aviation industry. It marks the nation’s successful effort to restore international confidence, rebuild operational integrity, and revive its position in the competitive global travel market.
As PIA takes off once again toward Manchester, the event stands as a reminder that reform, resilience, and responsible governance can pave the way for new beginnings. The skies over Pakistan and Britain are once again connected, carrying with them the hopes of renewed travel, tourism, and trust between two nations linked by history, heritage, and shared aspirations.
