ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has confirmed that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will restart direct flights to the United Kingdom in September 2025.
Addressing a press conference on Friday, Dar said flights from Islamabad to Manchester will begin next month. The airline is planning three to four flights per week on this route. He added that there is strong public demand for the return of direct services to Britain.
Earlier, officials reported that preparations for the restart were in their final stages. A PIA delegation, including Chief Operating Officer Khurram Mushtaq and General Manager Coordination Zulqarnain Mehdi, has already visited Manchester. The team reviewed airport facilities and coordination plans ahead of the launch.
The delegation will submit a detailed report on the operational and logistical arrangements. This assessment will help ensure smooth service once flights resume.
According to initial plans, PIA will operate four weekly flights between Islamabad and Manchester. Officials also said the airline aims to expand its UK network in the coming months. Services to London and Birmingham are expected to follow after the successful restart of Manchester operations.
The development comes after Britain lifted its five-year ban on Pakistani carriers earlier this year. The suspension was imposed in 2020 following safety concerns, forcing PIA to halt its UK operations. The clearance has allowed Pakistan’s flag carrier to re-enter one of its key international markets.
Aviation analysts believe the move will benefit passengers by providing direct connections and competitive fares. It also marks a major step for PIA as it seeks to rebuild its reputation abroad.
The government has described the resumption as a positive milestone in strengthening air links between Pakistan and the UK.
Authorities are also monitoring other airports closely after Sialkot airport flooding halted flights amid heavy rains earlier this week.
