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. This marks a major milestone for Pakistan’s aviation sector, which has faced years of operational restrictions, financial losses, and global scrutiny.

Background: Why the Ban Was Imposed

In 2020, the UK and European Union suspended Pakistani airlines after the PIA Flight 8303 crash in Karachi, which claimed 97 lives, and exposed widespread pilot licensing irregularities. Investigations revealed that nearly one-third of Pakistani pilots had fraudulent licenses, raising serious concerns over safety standards and regulatory oversight.

The suspension forced passengers to rely on Middle Eastern and European airlines, causing billions in lost revenue and severely damaging PIA’s international credibility.

UK Lifts Ban Following Safety Reforms

On July 16, 2025, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) officially lifted restrictions on Pakistani carriers, citing significant improvements in safety standards, pilot training, and regulatory oversight.

PIA must still obtain a Third Country Operator (TCO) permit from the UK before officially resuming flights. Officials anticipate services will restart by mid-October 2025.

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

PIA’s Response and Planned Routes

PIA has confirmed it will resume major UK routes, beginning with Islamabad–Manchester, followed by London and Birmingham.

A spokesperson stated:

“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 to reallocate resources toward the UK sector.

Financial and Strategic Significance

The UK ban cost PIA an estimated PKR 40 billion (US$144 million) annually, as thousands of travelers relied on foreign carriers.

The relaunch coincides with PIA’s privatization process, with four investor groups shortlisted to acquire up to 100% of the airline. Aviation analysts believe reopening historically profitable UK routes could significantly increase PIA’s market value and attract potential investors.

Momentum After European Clearance

Earlier in 2025, the European Union cleared Pakistani carriers, allowing PIA to resume its Islamabad–Paris flights in January, ending a 4.5-year suspension. This successful relaunch set the stage for the UK decision.

Government and Public Reaction

The Pakistani government hailed the UK’s move as a diplomatic and operational success. Aviation officials praised reforms within the CAA, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described it as:

“A victory for Pakistan’s credibility in international aviation.”

The Pakistani diaspora in the UK celebrated on social media:

• @PakAviationNews: “Finally, after 5 years, the UK has lifted the ban. PIA direct flights expected soon. Huge relief for expats!”

• @LondonPakCommunity: “PIA flights from Islamabad to London will save time and money. Hoping for competitive fares.”

Analysts, however, urge PIA to maintain high safety standards to prevent future disruptions.

What This Means for Passengers

The return of direct PIA flights offers:

• Lower fares compared to connecting flights via the Middle East

• Shorter travel times and greater convenience

• Restored connectivity with Pakistan’s national carrier

For PIA, this marks a financial and symbolic comeback, reinforcing trust and reestablishing its presence in a key international market

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