PIA preparing to resume flights to the UK
Pakistan International Airlines
(PIA) is set to resume its flights to London and Manchester by February 2025,
as confirmed by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif.
In an interview with a local news
channel, the Minister revealed that PIA plans not only to restart services to
the UK but also to introduce flights to 19 European cities, including Barcelona
and Milan. Furthermore, the airline is eyeing expansion into the US and Canada.
Asif emphasized that these new
routes will significantly enhance PIA’s market presence, potentially making it
a more attractive option for privatization. This move is part of PIA’s broader
strategy to recover from operational and reputational setbacks in recent years.
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actively seeking to reinstate PIA flights to UK
The airline recently resumed flights
to France, marking its first service to Paris in over four years. The inaugural
flight was warmly received by passengers, PIA officials, and Pakistan’s Charge
d’Affaires, highlighting the strengthening of ties between Pakistan, France,
and the European Union. Passengers appreciated the direct flight’s shorter
travel time and high-quality service.
In another development, the
Pakistani government has decided to rehire Ernst & Young to assist with a
renewed effort to privatize the airline. This decision comes despite previous
dissatisfaction with the firm’s handling of earlier privatization attempts.
Under the leadership of the Sharif government, new advertisements will be
issued to attract additional bidders after the previous privatization effort
failed. PIA’s outlook has improved following the reopening of European routes
and the support of an IMF-backed plan to inject funds into the struggling
airline.
Source: Daily Pakistan