PIA to Resume Direct UK Flights from October After Five-Year Ban

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is preparing to relaunch direct flights to the United Kingdom, following the UK government’s decision to lift a five-year ban on Pakistani carriers. The move marks a major breakthrough for Pakistan’s aviation industry, which has faced years of restrictions, financial losses, and global scrutiny.

Why the Ban Was Imposed

In 2020, both the UK and European Union banned Pakistani airlines after a tragic PIA Flight 8303 crash in Karachi, which killed 97 people, and revelations about widespread irregularities in pilot licensing. Investigations suggested that nearly one-third of Pakistani pilots had obtained licenses fraudulently, raising international concerns over safety standards and regulatory oversight.

The scandal severely damaged Pakistan’s aviation credibility, forcing passengers to rely on Middle Eastern and European carriers for travel to the UK. This not only reduced PIA’s market share but also cost the airline billions in lost revenue.

UK Lifts Ban After Safety Reforms

On July 16, 2025, the UK Civil Aviation Authority formally lifted restrictions on Pakistani airlines, acknowledging improvements in air safety standards and oversight. According to Reuters and AP, the decision came after extensive audits, reforms in pilot training, and stricter monitoring by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

While the ban has been lifted, PIA must still secure a Third Country Operator (TCO) permit from the UK before flights can officially restart. Officials are confident services will resume by mid-October 2025 once the licensing process is complete.

Additionally, the UK Department of Transport granted PIA a five-year ACC3 certificate, allowing it to carry cargo between Pakistan and the UK until 2030.

PIA’s Response and Next Steps

PIA officials have confirmed that the airline is working on schedules to restart major UK routes, beginning with Islamabad–Manchester and later expanding to London and Birmingham.

A spokesperson said:

“We are finalizing flight schedules and completing licensing procedures. The resumption of UK flights will restore a vital link for millions of Pakistanis, especially our diaspora.”

To support the relaunch, PIA has temporarily suspended its Lahore–Paris route, citing low demand and the need to redirect resources toward the more profitable UK sector.

Financial and Strategic Impact

The ban had cost PIA an estimated PKR 40 billion (US$144 million) annually, as thousands of Pakistanis traveling to the UK relied on foreign airlines.

The relaunch comes at a time when Pakistan is moving forward with PIA’s privatization. Four investor groups have been shortlisted to acquire up to 100% of the airline’s stake. Aviation analysts believe that reopening UK routes — historically among PIA’s most profitable — could significantly increase the airline’s market value and attractiveness to buyers.

Momentum After European Clearance

The UK decision follows a similar move by the European Union, which cleared Pakistani carriers earlier in 2025. PIA resumed its Islamabad–Paris flights in January, ending a 4.5-year suspension. That successful relaunch gave regulators confidence and set the stage for Britain to follow suit.

Government and Public Reaction

The Pakistani government hailed the UK’s decision as both a diplomatic success and an operational achievement. Aviation Minister praised reforms within the CAA, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called it “a victory for Pakistan’s credibility in international aviation.”

The news has sparked relief and celebration among the Pakistani diaspora in the UK. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), users expressed their excitement:

• @PakAviationNews:

  “Finally, after 5 years, the UK has lifted the ban on Pakistani airlines. PIA is expected to resume direct flights soon. Huge relief for expats!”

• @LondonPakCommunity:

  “This is great news. PIA flights from Islamabad to London will save us both time and money. Hoping for competitive fares.”

At the same time, some analysts and aviation enthusiasts remain cautious, urging PIA to maintain the improved standards to avoid future setbacks.

What This Means for Passengers

For overseas Pakistanis, particularly in Manchester, Birmingham, and London, the return of PIA’s direct flights means:

• Lower fares compared to connecting flights through the Middle East

• Greater convenience with shorter travel times

• Restored connectivity with Pakistan’s national carrier

For PIA, the resumption marks a financial and symbolic comeback, rebuilding trust and reestablishing its position in one of its most important international markets.