Air Blue submits application to UK Civil Aviation Authority to begin UK flights
Airblue has officially submitted a formal
application to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to begin flight operations
between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, according to sources.
The airline plans to launch direct flights from
Islamabad to Manchester as early as August, pending approval from the UK
authorities.
This development follows a similar move by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), which had already applied for permission to resume its UK services. Both carriers are currently awaiting the green light from the UK CAA.
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The applications come in the wake of a major
breakthrough: the UK’s Air Safety Committee recently lifted its ban on
Pakistani airlines, citing significant improvements in aviation safety
standards.
The news has brought optimism among aviation
officials, frequent travelers, and members of the Pakistani diaspora in the UK,
who have long awaited the return of direct connections.
The announcement was confirmed by the British High Commission in Islamabad. British High Commissioner Jane Marriott praised the joint efforts of aviation authorities in both countries, stating:
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"I’m
grateful to aviation experts in the UK and Pakistan for their hard work to meet
international safety standards. I look forward to flying with a Pakistani
airline to visit family and friends."
Following the UK’s approval, PIA has already begun preparations to resume operations. The national carrier plans to launch direct flights to Manchester, London, and Birmingham, operating three times a week.
Source: Bloom Pakistan