By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) marked a major milestone on Saturday as it resumed direct flights to the United Kingdom after a five-year suspension. The development comes as a sign of renewed confidence in the national carrier’s operational and safety standards, with government leaders promising to make PIA a profitable and competitive organisation once again.
PIA’s First Flight to Manchester Takes Off
A special ceremony was held at Islamabad International Airport to celebrate the resumption of PIA’s flight operations to the UK. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, speaking at the event, reaffirmed the government’s determination to rebuild PIA’s reputation and profitability.
The inaugural flight, PK-701, operated by a Boeing 777 aircraft, departed from Islamabad to Manchester and is scheduled to land after a non-stop journey of approximately five hours. A welcoming ceremony is also being organized at Manchester Airport to commemorate the occasion, according to a PIA spokesperson.
The resumption of flights became possible following PIA’s receipt of the Third Country Operator (TCO) approval from British authorities last month. Britain had earlier lifted its five-year ban on Pakistani airlines in July, allowing them to apply for the resumption of services.
Government’s Commitment to Reform and Quality
Addressing the gathering, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif highlighted that the suspension of UK operations had caused substantial financial losses to PIA and the national economy. He emphasized that under the current administration, the airline had successfully reinstated its quality and credibility.
“We have successfully reinstated the quality and credibility of our national airline,” Asif stated, commending the efforts of Pakistan’s diplomatic corps for playing a vital role in restoring international confidence. He also expressed gratitude to the British High Commissioner for the cooperation extended throughout the process.
The event was attended by British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, the Defence Secretary, senior PIA officials, and members of Pakistan’s aviation administration.
Restoring Trust After the 2020 Crisis
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Mohammad Faisal, said the Islamabad-Manchester route marks just the beginning, with plans underway to expand flight operations to other major British cities, including London and Birmingham.
Faisal, in a conversation with The Telegraph, said that the challenges which led to the suspension of flights had been thoroughly addressed. He recalled that the airline faced a severe credibility crisis following the 2020 Karachi plane crash, which killed 97 people and exposed the issue of pilots holding dubious licences.
The tragedy led to criminal investigations into 50 pilots and several Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) officials accused of issuing fake certifications. Since then, PIA has implemented stricter vetting mechanisms for pilot qualifications and upgraded its safety protocols to meet international standards.
Strengthening Safety and Operational Standards
According to reports, PIA has undergone a comprehensive overhaul of its safety management and maintenance systems. The airline’s flight crews have been re-evaluated and certified under UK and European regulatory frameworks.
Faisal noted that new systems have been introduced involving external examiners to oversee pilot licensing, ensuring transparency and compliance with global aviation norms. “Pakistani pilots are known all over the world, and they are flying planes in reputable airlines,” he remarked, emphasizing that the country’s aviation talent remains globally respected.
PIA officials estimate that the suspension of UK operations resulted in an annual revenue loss of approximately Rs40 billion. The resumption of these routes, especially to cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham, is expected to significantly improve the airline’s financial outlook.