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PIA to Resume UK Flights From October 25, Starting With Manchester-Islamabad Route
PIA resumes UK flights from Oct 25, starting with nonstop Manchester–Islamabad service. More routes to follow soon.
MH
by Muhammad Hashir
2025-10-04
PIA to Resume UK Flights From October 25, Starting With Manchester-Islamabad Route

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced that it will resume direct flights to the United Kingdom from October 25, marking its long-awaited return to British skies after more than four years. The national carrier confirmed that the first phase of operations will begin with nonstop flights from Manchester to Islamabad.

The announcement follows the Pakistan High Commission in London’s statement on Friday that PIA had secured its Foreign Aircraft Operating Permit from the UK Civil Aviation Authority and Third Country Operator approval. While the high commission had not specified a date, PIA confirmed the official launch today in a post on X (formerly Twitter): “The wait is finally over! Pakistan International Airlines proudly reconnects Manchester and Islamabad, bringing loved ones closer once again.”

According to officials, operations to Manchester will be resumed first, with plans to expand routes to Birmingham and London in the subsequent phases.

This milestone comes after the UK Department for Transport concluded an aviation security inspection at Islamabad International Airport in July, declaring Pakistan’s security arrangements “satisfactory and in line with international standards.” As a result, the UK removed Pakistan from its Air Safety List, allowing its airlines to reapply for flight operations.

PIA’s return to the UK market carries significant symbolic and operational importance. The airline was banned from flying to the European Union, the UK, and the United States in June 2020, following the tragic Karachi plane crash that killed nearly 100 people. The accident triggered global scrutiny of Pakistan’s aviation sector, including revelations that 262 pilots held dubious licences.

After extensive reforms and safety upgrades, the ban on operations in Europe was lifted in November 2024, paving the way for PIA’s re-entry into the UK. Aviation experts say the resumption of flights is a critical step in restoring PIA’s reputation and improving connectivity for the large Pakistani diaspora in Britain.

The resumption is being hailed as a “historic return,” rekindling air links that are vital for families, business travelers, and students. With the Manchester-Islamabad route operational from October 25, PIA is now preparing to expand services to other key UK destinations in the months ahead.
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PIA

PakistanAviation

UKFlights

ManchesterIslamabad
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